University of Louisiana at Lafayette Athletics
Meet the Cajuns: Jill Robertson
2/22/2005 12:00:00 AM | Softball
Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2005
The one question I continue to be asked is—“Jill, why do you keep coming back after suffering all those injuries?” The very thought of not coming back has never entered my mind. I was not ready to go out that way. Don't get me wrong—there were several times after hours of grueling therapy sessions, after I was covered from head to toe in sweat, after enduring painful stretches and exercises to the point of tears, that I thought I must be crazy to undergo all the pain, but it's a desire and want only athletes can understand. It's hard to explain why I continue to come back—it's a burning passion for the sport that has been in my heart ever since I could remember. Perseverance. Hard Work. Dedication. Commitment. It's who I am. There was a reason why God wanted me to go down on that day. There is a reason why I am part of the 2005 Lady Cajun Softball Team. We truly have something special here. The upperclassmen have had a taste of the World Series and are hungry for more--a national championship. We add to that mix a very talented, hard working group of sophomores and freshmen.
After sitting out a whole year and watching from the sidelines, every game, every practice, every groundball, every flyball, is special. Play every game and approach every practice like it is your last—my own motto for the season. Our team motto—Why Not Us? Why not us—we have the talent, the team chemistry, the want, and the fight to hold up that trophy at the end of May. Of course, like every other year since I've been here, there will be challenges and obstacles to overcome, but that is what is so special about this team. We care about each other, we love each other, and no matter what happens we will stand by each other until the end. I can't assure you a national championship or even a trip to the World Series, but there is one thing I am sure of—we will not go down without a fight. We will fight until we fall and then we will get up and fight some more.
Special and many thanks to my family especially my mom and dad for allowing me to chase my dreams even after so many injuries. I know it was not easy for my parents to watch me endure the pain and suffering, but they have continued to support my decision to come back and play the game I have loved and will continue to love even after I'm done. Thanks to you dad for giving up so much of your time to coach me to be the best in whatever I do and to you mom for coming along for the ride and never complaining. I love you!! Thanks to both of you for teaching me the importance of education and getting a degree—a feat I am most proud of.
Thanks to the best fans any softball team could every play in front of. You continue to support and give your time to allow “US” to chase our dreams. You open up your arms and your homes and accept “US” as your own. Without you, nothing we have accomplished would have been possible.
Thanks to the coaches. Without you Coach Stef, I would not be here today. I can never repay you and words do no justice for what you have done for me and my family. Thanks for motivating and believing in me. Coach Mike—you continue to believe in me when I don't even believe in myself. Your hard work and dedication to the game has paid off for you. YOU are the hardest worker on the team. Coach Lacy—what can I say—we have come so far together. Thank you for the wonderful memories and times we spent together. I will cherish them forever
Last but not least, thank you to my teammates. I have had the best time of my life with all of you. I will never forget the times we have shared together. I have learned so much about myself from you and have made so many memories. Thank you for your encouragement and for never giving up on me. I know this year will be special. I love you!!
-- Ragin' Cajuns --
