Syreeta Stafford
Pepperdine basketball junior guard
Diary Entry No. 2
Nov. 3, 2003
Hey Waves fans,
I know that I'm new to the game so let me introduce myself and tell you a little bit about my life. My name is Syreeta Deline Stafford. I am 21 years old. I am a college basketball transfer (Colorado) and the NCAA requires that transfer athletes sit out a year, so that's what I'll be doing this season. I am the youngest of three children (no that does make me spoiled)! I have an older sister, Charvelle, and also an older brother Alvin.
I was born and raised in Compton, California in a single parent home. My mom is my backbone and the love of my life. Everything that I have accomplished and ever hope to accomplish is because of my mom, her belief in me, and also because of her continuous prayers for my dreams. We have a very close knit family and that I pride myself on that more than anything else in this world. Not only was I blessed with the ability to play sports, but also to also have a great supporting cast, which is my family and I love them with all my heart.
Not until Saturday, November 1st did it hit me. Not until the ball was tossed in the air and the first points were scored did it hit me that I will not be playing this year. Up until this point I had been participating in everything that the team has been doing. Lifting weights at 6:30 in the morning, going through individual workouts, practicing and even playing during the occasional scrimmages. Not until 7:01 when the ball was tossed in the air and I was in my Pepperdine sweats did it hit me that I wasn't going to be able to be a part of helping my team beat Love & Basketball.
This summer and preseason has been wonderful for me. It's been a joy getting to know my teammates, coaching staff and this exceptional Pepperdine family. God picked the road I'd have to travel to get here, so that I could and can enjoy the atmosphere that I am in today. This year will be tough for me-yes I will have to sit and watch this great team shock the world by their talent and heart-but I am blessed just to be a part of it. During this time, I will get my body get as healthy as possible, so when it's my turn-I'll be sure to not let you all down.
Thank you all for your acceptance of my basketball abilities and me. Through prayer and a lot of running this team will be great...not only this year but for years to come. So please make sure to keep us in your prayers and be sure to give us a push when you see us walking slowly up those thousands of steps.
Hope to see you all at the games, God Bless!
Go Waves!
Syreeta Stafford
"Sy"
#3
