3,781,561. Yes, I counted. I took 3,781,561 pictures this year. Those pictures captured some incredible moments, and it’s all thanks to you, Saints. Through these 3,781,561 pictures, I have seen history being made. Being a photographer for Xavier has inspired me; it has given me the opportunity to grow as a photographer and as a person. It’s crazy to think I almost never picked up a camera.

After taking a photo class with my best friend, Nicole, sports photos seemed to come naturally to me. After interning at The Gazette, I decided it was what I wanted to do with my life. You never know when your future will hit you, so I encourage you to say yes to new opportunities.

From basketball to football and everything in between, I saw Xavier spirit in full force. While taking pictures this year, I learned a lot from the players. After every play on the football field I saw the heart of the players shine through. I saw the abundance of humility on the basketball court when the only thing the players said to their coaches was “thank you” as they finished third in the state tournament. I saw many amazing moments this year, but there were some special ones I’ll never forget.

I’ll always remember capturing the emotions of the football team after they won the state title and seeing the players cry as they celebrated. I’ll remember crying while taking photos of Joey Drahozal and Coach Schulte after the championship game. I’ll remember almost getting hit by punts during football games. I’ll remember capturing “the catch” and running around on the track during halftime because I was so excited to get that photo. I’ll remember taking pictures at a basketball game and getting Matt Mims’ blood on my shoes after he was elbowed in the face. Those are the moments I’ll never forget.

Overall, I want to say thank you to all of the people who made me who I am today. Thank you to Mrs. Budde for turning me from a quiet introvert into an outgoing person. Thank you to Mrs. Wagner for encouraging me to try something new. Thank you to my parents for sacrificing everything for me. Thank you to my friends for being my biggest fans and letting me paint your faces for an art project.

Finally, thank you, Saints. Thank you for letting me take 3,781,561 photos this year. Thank you for your passion. This year was incredible, and it’s crazy that it went by in a flash.

Camryn  McPherson

Photo Editor