Thank You Seniors '12

I have developed a personal tradition of writing a post of personal thanks for each senior Auburn football player. This year was a tough one, but the seniors fought through. These players have seen the highs and lows of life and college football. I love that they allow us feel like we are a part of things or 'know' them through social media or other outlets.  As always, we as fans, have favorite players, so there may be players I know about more than others. That doesn't mean that I am not grateful for each and every player on the roster. The players are listed in order of their jersey numbers.

At any rate, here we go:

DeAngelo Benton:  I know things happened in your life this year that weren't the way you would have chosen. I am so thankful you stuck with the team. I appreciate your dedication to the team and to Auburn. I thank you for your time at Auburn. I hope good things happen for you in your life.

Anthony Morgan:  I always enjoy reading your twitter posts. I know you probably didn't play as much as you wanted to, but I enjoyed watching you play when you did.  A team doesn't work without all of the parts so your dedication mattered. I thank you for your time of service to Auburn.

Ikeem Means: I think you will have a successful life.  You did make a difference at Auburn. I wish you nothing but success. Thank you for your time of service to Auburn.  I know that there will be  many good times to look back on and remember. We thank you.

T'Sharvan Bell:  You really worked to step up as a leader this year. I know that it may not have seemed like it mattered much, but down the line, the legacy you left will make a difference.  I won't ever forget seeing you take the Bama quarterback to the ground to basically seal the game. You played your heart out every time you set foot on the field. Thanks for everything you did for Auburn.

Onterio McCalebb: I often use you as an example to my students for overcoming obstacles. I remember watching you the first time I saw you in person at the Auburn/MS State game in 09. Anytime you got a chance to dazzle the crowd, you did it. You did it with class. You always credited your teammates. Thanks for everything you did for Auburn. I look forward to hearing about great things from you .

Daren Bates: I bet it doesn't feel like you are nearly finished. Your still-arm play this year was amazing!!! There were many times I saw you make some terrific plays. I appreciate your quiet leadership that you lent to Auburn for the last few years. Your playing was outstanding as well. I hope that good things happen in your life.  Thank you so much for everything you did for Auburn.

Jonathan Evans: I saw you play a few times in high school. I so enjoyed seeing you at Auburn. I hope you are able to move on to great things. Your time at Auburn did make a difference. You paved the path for others. I appreciate you and look forward to seeing great things from you.  I hope all of your dreams come true. Maybe one day another player from Blount will say you inspired him.

Philip Lutzenkirchen:  I've got an unusual last name, so I always felt sort of connected to you. You've been a shining light at Auburn, both on and off the field. you have demonstrated leadership beyond measure. I was sick when I heard you were out for the rest of the season! I hope you heal quickly and are able to move on to the things you want to do. There are so many favorite plays of yours, but what I appreciate most from you is the class and leadership and Christian walk you demonstrated at Auburn. (OK, maybe I remember the touchdown at Alabama and the little dance!)  I hope that WONDERFUL things happen for you. I can't wait to hear about you in the future.

Ashton Richardson: Your story is another one I love- a walk on later earning a scholarship! You demonstrated a never quit attitude that was clear. Your leadership was something that helped the team many ways. I am super impressed that you interviewed for the Rhodes Scholarship. I hope all of your dreams come true. I can't WAIT to hear about the things that you do. I know they will be great!!

John Sullen: Your little smile is too cute!! You have been a steady person on the team. I appreciate the plays and the leadership that you demonstrated in the team. I hope that terrific things happen for you. Thanks for everything you did for Auburn. I appreciate it. Let us hear from you.

Jamar Travis:  I've said this before, but I don't think that a team works without all of the parts. I appreciate your effort and your love for Auburn. Your time did make a difference. Thank you for your service to Auburn. We will never forget your graduating class.

Emory Blake: Wow! What a career! You have been impressive both on and off the field. I HATE to lose you!  I remember one of your first touchdowns when you pumped your arm in excitement! I loved it! I love how you have tried to be a good teammate. You've been supportive of the team, both players and coaches. I think any NFL team would be CRAZY not to take you! I appreciate your time and effort and love for Auburn.  Thank you so much for everything you've done for Auburn.

Travante Stallworth: I always thought your twitter name was so funny. I appreciate everything you have done for Auburn. Your time and effort has been appreciated. Thank you so much for your time, leadership and love for Auburn. It seems like yesterday that your class started at Auburn. Thank you so much.

To all of the players- please come back to Auburn often. We love and support all of you. We will always be a part of a family through the good times and bad times. I love Auburn and I know all of you do, too. Stay in touch and visit often! War Eagle over and over again!