Emotionally, making my debut has been the highlight so far. I didn't know I was starting until three minutes before. I went in and put my shirt on, and the team were already in the tunnel.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
What I liked was to set the tone - set the pace for the team. I know when we're starting the game, I can get on and steal a base, then a guy bring me in. Then we're in the lead and in a good position to win. That was the most exciting thing - to help the team.
Being in the stands is very difficult. I was never playing but I am nervous watching, waiting.
I wanted to be a part of something special and contributing to the launch of a new league was very exciting to me.
When I step forward on the floor, I have the confidence that I'm the best player playing that night and that I am the most prepared at what I need to be doing.
I was nervous from the very beginning, and it got worse as the years went on. I was conscientious and wanted to do more, always, than I was able. I don't think, when I was playing, that I was ever happy - beginning at 4 o'clock any afternoon.
When I started finishing games and coming off the field shaking hands, it was a beautiful thing. I mean, you start seeing that you're an important part of the team.
I am so happy when I feel emotion about the way my team plays.
And I remember how proud I was to put on my training jersey and go out on the field. Making it back to that environment was for me my greatest moment, because somebody had told me I couldn't do it and I never gave up on myself, the game and my teammates.
When I arrived, I felt the spotlight shining brightly on me, and I knew the sharks were ready to strike if I did not pan out and prove myself to be the showman and the player the college ranks had labeled me to be.
There's a ton of nerves for every fight I've been in; it doesn't matter if it was my debut.