Victoria on #AmazingV1Leaders

What makes students come back to Varsity? It's not the food stand, the iPods or the game consoles, but the amazing friends they meet -- ones who constantly lead them towards Christ. I'd like to thank some influential #VarsityOne students for impacting my life and the lives of others.

Jacob Painter: You've been there for me through thick and thin! You're the go-to person whenever I have a problem and need advice. You're also the go-to person whenever I want to have a good time. I admire how you're comfortable with yourself -- you're not scared to show who you really are. You have a colorful (LOL) personality, and I thank you for the countless memories (prom, ilyiapw, hot ghetto mess, reversed dyslexic watermelon... haha).

Kara Palso: You were one of my first friends at Varsity. I feel like I can trust you with any secret. You're honest and loyal, and you make everyone feel welcome! You're very talented onstage, and you glorify God in everything you do. You truly are incredible on all levels. :)

Kyler Hall: You're a total spaz, but you know when to be sincere. I can count on you 100%. You're an empathetic and caring guy, and you put your friends before yourself. Plus, you laugh at my jokes... and my awesomely attractiveness (LOL).

Caroline Worthy: You're someone I can be real with. I feel like there's nothing to hide when I'm talking to you! You make for excellent conversation, and you're always interested in how my day's going. I think we get along well because we can relate. One thing I'd like to mention: you don't change your values for anyone. You're a respectable girl, and any guy would be lucky to have you!

Katie McCarthy: You're someone who'll lend a hand, and you genuinely want people to be involved in Varsity. You consistently contribute your ideas, and you're pretty good with lights and sound, too. My favorite: you never let anyone feel left out. I look forward to hanging out more on Wednesday nights. :P

Alex Waddell: It brings me hope when I watch you praise on Wednesday nights. You love God, and you're not afraid to raise your hands and tell the world! You've given back to #VarsityOne in several ways, and I can depend on you as a friend. You're too sweet, Alex!

David Bohnenberger: You're enthusiastic about God -- no matter what! You're definitely not a counterfeit Christian. You have an infinite number of ideas, and I consider you a bona fide leader. You've left a mark on those middle schoolers, too! Don't forget that God has SO MUCH in store for you. :)

Brittany Bowman: I remember the skit you, Dusty, Hilliary and I did that one Wednesday. You're a skilled actress, and I believe God will use your creativity to do His work. You're always helping someone, and we all love to be around you!

Dusty Hollahan: You're cool, Dusty. When you weren't at Varsity for a couple of weeks, everyone was so concerned. That in itself proves you help make Varsity a fun place to be, and we miss you when you're not there. Thanks for being my friend. :)

Hilliary Clark: You have to be one of the most bubbly girls! Your personality is out of this universe, and you have a positive spirit and energy about you. I like that you come to me when you're feeling down. You just make everyone feel loved! You're too cute, Hill.

Zan Greene: You make me smile when you're onstage. You're a unique person, and you take pride in yourself. You bounce off the walls, and you don't care what anybody thinks. God made you like this... and you appreciate it (as does everyone else)! Keep rocking on that guitar, Zan. :)

Justin Okamoto: Justin, your sense of humor could brighten the darkest of rooms. Although you tend to be a goofball, you understand what struggle is, and you're always willing to assist someone in a rocky situation. Your musical talent and love for God will take you far in life. I thank you for your support. Don't forget how big your heart is!

Jeff Wood: You're one of the friendliest and relaxed guys I know. You're the first to notice me in the hallways at school, and you never cease to make me laugh. What's great, though, is you can also carry on an intellectual conversation. You're a brilliant actor and musician, and you make me feel cool (haha).

Matthew Riddle: *person I tease the most* Matthew, you may come off as the player type to some, but you're sensitive deep down! You never fail to reach out when I'm upset, and you do everything you can to make it better. You've taught me a lot this year. You're a good friend and actor, you're fun to hang out with and I can always rely on you. Plus, your dad just rocks... haha.

Tyler King: Mr. Brain-on-Legs (or Brain for short), you're one smart cookie. You've done a lot to help our church as a whole and to help your friends. Even the little things you do matter. Thanks for being a leader on and off stage.

Kasey Ensign: You're hysterical, and I love your laugh... haha. I remember the first time I heard you sing at the Midsummer's auditions. You tried to make it appear like you were an amateur, but then this POWERFUL voice belted out. I enjoy watching you onstage, how you put your heart into it...

Dillon Grasser: I haven't known you for very long, but I can see that you're one funny, smart kid. I realized something the other day at the #VarsityOne meeting: you're a touching speaker. You've had a hard past, and you want to encourage people who've been through similar struggles to speak up. That makes you a leader in my book.

Casey Goodwin: You may be new to Varsity, but you've already begun to fit in. You have such potential, and you're one heck of a Colorguard geek! :P

If you weren't mentioned, it doesn't mean you won't be. I've just been sitting here forever... haha. :)

-- Victoria Ralph / Editor