I sprained my ankle at the sixth period the day of the Natchez High sports banquet on May 16. I was trying to show some of my students how to play ping-pong.

Therefore, I was trying to hurry up and get something written before the banquet started. Leaving the doctor’s office after 5 p.m. didn’t give me much time.

I really didn’t get to say good-bye to my seniors like I wanted to. First of all, to Ke’Airra Jones, you led the team in scoring, steals and assists for three years. You hustled every day and you played pretty good defense, except for some occasional silly fouls. But you are truly going to be missed. Good luck in the future and continue to play hard and put God first and you will do well.

To Keirra Stringer, I really do feel for the people who lost loved ones and homes during Katrina. But had it not been for Katrina, we probably would have never met, and you probably wouldn’t have become a part of our family here at Natchez High. You added a spark to our offensive attack and we are going to truly miss you also. Good luck and keep God first and you will do well.

To Tonisha Coach, I am truly proud of you. You got your act together and came back out this year and contributed well. Keep working hard, the sky is the limit. Good luck and keep God first and you will do well.

To Candace Frye, you went down early in the season, and I know that it killed your spirit. But you have the heart of a champion and you will bounce back! You were a vital plug missing from our team this year. You were the best defended that we had, and we really missed you this season. But don’t give up! There’s a little tiger (Bulldog) in your tank and it’s fighting to get out! Work hard, get stronger and stronger and you will be back to your true passion (jumping hurdles) faster than ever! Believe in yourself! We do. Good luck and put God first and you will do well.

Congratulations to you Alia Frank for making all-district.

I love and will miss you all very much, and I wish nothing but the best for each of you. May God continue to bless and keep you as you travel through life’s journey.

Sue Johnson is the head basketball coach of the Natchez High Lady Bulldogs.