My Friend

About seven years ago I hired a guy for the Head Tennis Pro position at the club where I am the tennis director. I didn't know it then but this guy would have a tremendous effect on my life. Over the course of time we became great friends and peers in the tennis world, learning much from each other about life and other pursuits. I saw him get married, buy a home and thought we would end up doing something in tennis or business together. Seven months ago we had a talk in the office and Jay told me of his plans to try his hand at the Ventura County Sheriffs Academy. I was shocked that he was going down that career path with all his other talents I didn't see this one coming. He got through the academy, which was one of the toughest things he has ever done, and yesterday on Halloween , his favorite day, he graduated! It was a little bittersweet knowing our paths may not cross much any more, and that I will miss my friend, but I am so proud to see what he has become and wish him all the good fortune in the world. Godspeed to you Jay Havelka.