Greetings,

As we enter this Christmas season, our minds and hearts are full of gratitude as we are about to receive the greatest of all gifts. Experiencing gratitude has a direct positive impact on our overall well-being. Studies have shown that expressing gratitude strengthens relationships, improves health, reduces stress, and even improves sleep. Keeping a gratitude journal, praying with grateful contemplation, and writing a gratitude letter to someone special are easy ways to initiate gratitude into our daily lives.

Brian Smith wrote an article detailing the benefits of gratitude in athletics. Smith contends that grateful athletes take time to soak in the moment, recognize people who go unnoticed, fight against entitlement, are coachable, look for silver linings, see joy as not conditional, and recognize excellence in their opponents. View full article.

Personally, I am extremely grateful to serve the Ursuline community. This year has brought many wonderful memories. Not only sweet victories but, also, great effort and support from student-athletes, parents, coaches, faculty, staff, and administration.

Earning high academic achievement while participating in sport requires much effort and sacrifice. I would like to congratulate and thank these TAPPS Academic All-State recipients:

• Cross Country: Elise Welch
• Volleyball: Caroline Muller, Isabella Lopez, Mackenzie Morris, and Natalia Walls.

Perhaps living a life of intentional gratitude is one way to continue to bask in the Christmas glory throughout the next year. What a great New Year's resolution!

Have a wonderful and blessed holiday season and GO BEARS!

Susan Noonan
Director of Athletics