Senior goodbye: A.J. Dilks

Dear Archbishop Carroll,

As my time in high school comes to an end, I often think about how much this community has helped me grow as an athlete, socially, and more importantly, in my faith. There is never a time you could walk down the halls of Carroll unhappy without a classmate noticing. Everyone has problems and success going on in their lives and everyone at Carroll is always there to celebrate the success but, more importantly, they are there to give you the strength to get you through hardships.

It is no secret that during my time at Carroll our football program really struggled, but no matter where my football career takes me, I will always be so proud to call myself a Carroll Patriot. My teammates were strangers that became my brothers. My coaches were always in my corner. I will always be in debt to what the coaches, faculty and staff gave to me.

“Get involved” is the most cliché, over-said advice given by every senior, but, with that being said, get involved because time flies. Do not care what you think you are perceived as; it does not matter. Involvement at Carroll will build you relationships with new friends or connections with important people who will become very useful. Keep your grades up; colleges want student athletes. But my most important advice is, if you’re going to attend a Catholic school, use every opportunity to build a connection with God. Do not strive to ever live an easy life. You will suffer in life no matter what, but if you’re going to suffer or go through pain, it is best to go through it with a relationship with God.