By Kristyl Kemmerer Fulton
In 1995, I was a part of a very important period in Phoenix History. I was privileged to be offered the position of shortstop on the very first Phoenix team. At the time, I did not realize the honor of being asked to play. Looking back as an adult, however, it is amazing how playing for the Phoenix impacted my life.
When I first began my Phoenix position, I was less than humble- overconfident and complacent. Instead of ignoring my superciliousness, Rich took me aside and talked to me about the significance of being a team player, and the value of being a leader. Gratefully, I took his words to heart, and I used them for personal guidance and to motivate my teammates. I learned how to be a better listener, a better leader, and a better teammate. The Phoenix coaches taught me to ask for help, to accept constructive criticism and direction, and to apply myself fully to any given situation on and off the field.
I learned so many things from being a Phoenix. I learned that I could be functional in any position, even from the bench; that being positive is extremely important; that a high-five, a slap on the back, and stern look all have several different meanings; that working hard is payment in itself; that winning is great, but giving your all is greater; that being part of a team, part of something important to you, is instrumental to a healthy self-esteem, especially for a teenage girl.
The Phoenix were my family. My best friends were beside me at all times. We worked together, we played together; we laughed together, we cried together. Rich, Nancy, Cory and Leah were, and still are, an essential part of my life. Without them I would indisputably not be the person I am today. They loved me as their own then and now and they will forever remain my family.
Though I decided against playing softball in college, the lessons I learned while on the Phoenix team were instilled in me. I use them every day in life, with my children and with my career.
I am now a college educated, 30-year old, happily married (for 7 years), mother of 3 (of the best children on earth). I am a proud member of the Lancaster Biddy Basketball Association Board of Directors and a small town web designer. I can honestly say that I am proud of who I have become. And who I have become is, in part, due to the lessons and love I received as a Phoenix.
I am proud of being a Phoenix. Even though I do not own the rights to being the best shortstop to have ever played for the Phoenix, I can say that I was the first.J
