THE HVJI at SEVEN YEARS — COLLINS’ REFLECTIONS and MUSINGS

A good many years ago my Orthodontic Staff and I celebrated 25 years of working together.
We had funneled money into a special savings account over the years.
Our celebration took place on a seven-day CRUISE that included each Staff Member and an Invitee.

One memorable occurrence during that week, happening frequently, still sticks in my mind.
Ready for hearing about it? Betting you are.
So, Dave, the husband of one Staff Member, stuttered a little bit. But that never stopped him.
Without fail, whenever the group of us gathered each day, the first words out of his mouth were always,
“W-What can I say?”

Read on.

What can I say — about the HVJI — with US being in OUR seventh year? First, and we’re talking time warp here, speedy, speedy years.
Next, that this tournament is now firmly in the top echelon of Junior Golf didn’t just materialize. A great many people from many walks made it happen.
And, no need to list, again, the multiple elements that contributed to our rise. I use “our” and “we” because this tournament’s base is broad with HVCC contributors and contributions.

But, you know what? Staying on the pinnacle requires continuing commitment, and dedication, and belief, and work, and contributing. Isn’t there an old saying about “Giving back?”
Giving back requires digging deep, remembering some of the “give-backs” we received, revisiting peoples’ givings that helped propel each of us toward our own pinnacles.

Yep, “What can I say?”
I can say that I am inwardly warmed by being part of forming, nurturing, tweaking, and advancing the HVJI.
I can say that I am blessed by having this warming feeling over and over.
I can say that I am not shy about suggesting that this tournament can rise much more.
I can say that Dan Hill was a Mighty Fortress in carving the tournament into its current form.
I can say that YOU might lace up your cleats, put on a brave face, and ask, “Allen, (or Bob), How can I be of help in the Hope Valley Junior Invitational?”
I can say that I would love to “nurture” someone who will take my place in writing about the tournament — as I age out.
I can say that it has always been a privilege and an honor to write for you.
I can say that your feedback — (ahhh, mostly favorable) — has been a nice reward when my head hits the pillow.

And, finally, I can say, until the next time,

“Yours Truly”

-by Andy Collins