David Barczak
I would like to start by saying how much of an honor it is to be nominated for this prestigious award along with five other amazing young men in Cole, Nick, Elliott, Matthew and Baron. I am proud to call these men my friends and brothers. I can say confidently that every single one of them would be a terrific recipient of Mr. Canisius.
Growing up in Orchard Park, I never gave Canisius High School too much thought. I had some friends that would constantly tell me about how amazing Canisius was, but I never really gave the idea much thought. To be quite honest I was close-minded to the idea of leaving most of my childhood friends that I'd grown up with. I was convinced to partake in the “Crusader for a Day” program, otherwise known as shadowing. During this day, I could feel that “brotherhood” that was posted on the walls and the compassion that the faculty had for each and every student. I went home that day and told my parents I wanted to be a Crusader.
In my four years I have made friendships that will last a lifetime. Most of them are people I’ve met playing baseball, hockey and golf at Canisius. The standard that is held for Canisius athletes is like no other. We are being pushed to our limits constantly, which has helped me develop tremendous amounts of discipline – and humility. I’m proud to say I feel that I have grown with respect to my character and maturity because of what I have been taught by mentors and coaches in my four years. I will continue to say this time and time again: Coming to Canisius was by far the best decision that I have made in my lifetime.
Lastly, I am humbled to be considered by my fellow classmates, teachers and coaches for this award. Grateful is an understatement for how much I appreciate the impact that Canisius has had on me and I am so honored to have the ability to call myself a Crusader.
A.M.D.G.
David Barczak