Time Flies!

By Jackie Lukas

I can't believe it's been nearly 5 years since I graduated college. Time really flies!  Now I realize 5 years is not a very long time -  but I really feel like I'm getting old. Especially after I went back to my school to play in my alumni basketball game! I went to Dowling College on a full scholarship to play ball. If you were wondering, I'm only 5'6" --- but 5'7" on the roster! haha :)  (yes, I was a guard). It was an awesome experience, playing Division II basketball. We were really good too! We went to the NCAA tournament and everything! It was an experience I will never forget. Playing sports throughout my life has shaped me into the person I am today. I've learned so much--teamwork, hard work, dedication, sportsmanship...time management!

I just went back Dowling to see all my former friends and players. I laced up my sneakers and hit the court again for my alumni game. But I have to be honest. I was totally out of shape! After the first 5 minutes - I was already sucking wind. It's kind of funny, yet I was mad at myself that I couldn't keep up like I used to. The game was a lot of fun! But the best part was seeing everyone and finding out where they are in their lives now! Some are doctors, others teachers and coaches! Seeing everyone was just like old times, like we were one big family. And check this out--there's even a huge poster of my team that hangs in the gymnasium all the time. It's us after we won the game to go to the NCAA tournament! Very cool! :)  

During the game, the current Dowling team watched us play. My coach told us that he talks about my old team all the time. It was nice to see that we created a legacy and something for the girls to look up to. I am also really proud of  this season's women's team, because not only are they doing well on the court, but they're helping others. Right now they've raised thousands of dollars for the Make A Wish Foundation. It was great to see that they are working hard to give back to others!

Going back to Dowling made me realize that no matter what, we'll always be a family. And I am very thankful for that!  But for next year's game, it will be different, Because I am going to train long and hard, and, hopefully, won't be so sore the next day! ;)

Comments

[E.L.]

Glad to see you Anchoring! You do a great job and I like seeing your infectious smile! Hopefully we'll see more . . .

[getosama]

i drove by a college, once. there's better money in doing commercial burglaries, i find. less education needed, as well! but, to each his own.

[Bob]

Jackie, I agree with Angie. You did a wonderful job as an anchor. Clear, concise and you looked very beautiful as well. Hope to see you doing more anchor duties.

[Angie]

I agree with you Jackie. Playing a sport, being in the school play or playing in the school band can help children in many important areas of development outside of the classroom. Hard work, teamwork and time management are critical life lesson that all children(and adults)need to develop. It was wonderful seeing you anchor the noon newscast. You did a great job and I hope to see more of you as an anchor in the future.

[Frank, Freeport]

Wow, Smart, Beautiful and an Athelete...I think I'm in love...Dowling is a Great School.. I took a course there once and the campus is beautiful.. I saw you over the weekend Anchoring.. You did an AWESOME job!! Is that permanent? Well, I hope we can still see you during the week.. I need my daily Jakie fix..

[susan l.rudnick]

What a great story ! perhaps the public high schools of long island could host charity alumni games as well.what with all the teams both boys and girls for basketball,baseball,softball,field hockey,volleyball,soccer,football lacross,tennis, golf and swim teams we could help alot of local charities.you have set a fine example of giving back to the community.susan l.rudnick

[John]

Y'know, I spent a while planning to make fun of your "getting old," but what with the charity, the NCAA tournament, and renewing old friendships, the story's too darn uplifting.

Funny story, though: My father disagreed with my choice of college. He thought I should go to Dowling. For the education? No. Because "the girls on the sports teams are hot." No lie. Direct quote. I still bear those scars...

Don't worry. He probably didn't have you in mind, unless it took you a decade or so to get your degree.