Dear Coach Elko, the entire Aggies family, teammates, and the 12th man,
I am overcome with emotion and thankfulness as I sit down to write this. This moment is about realizing what it means to be a part of something bigger than yourself, not simply about reflecting on the games we’ve won, the seasons we’ve played, or the lessons we’ve learned. And the most defining, transforming, and humble experience of my life has been being a Texas A&M Aggie.
I was a young quarterback with great goals and even bigger shoes to fill when I first walked into school. I was greeted with belief rather than coercion. I was accepted into a group that saw my ability before I did. Thank you to all of the coaches who remained late to break down video, to all of my teammates who helped me lift weights and celebrate with me at Kyle Field under those lights, and to all of the fans who shouted my name from the stands or simply said “Gig ’em” on campus. Your encouragement helped me grow, pushed me, and got me through good times and bad.
Thank you to Coach Mike Elko for believing in me, patiently coaching me, and demonstrating to me what it takes to be a leader with moral character and integrity. You didn’t merely teach me the fundamentals of football. You taught me how to handle difficult situations, how to take responsibility for every part of my game, and how to act like a man both on and off the field. I will always be thankful that you pushed me to be the best version of myself.
There isn’t a fan base like yours, 12th Man. Your enthusiasm gave us life, from the deafening cries that reverberated throughout the stadium to the Midnight Yells. You supported us, encouraged us, and believed in us whether we won or lost. Every touchdown felt magical because of you, and every snap had greater importance. I represented a whole legacy of perseverance, pride, and achievement when I played each game, not just myself.
I gained purpose from Texas A&M in addition to a platform. It provided me with the means to develop not only as a sportsman but also as a student, leader, and young man prepared for the next phase of his life. I move ahead with pride in the uniform I wore and the family I represented, whether that next step takes place on the field or off of it.
Always appreciative. Always an Aggie.
From the bottom of my heart,
Texas A&M Aggies
quarterback Marcel Reed
Gig ’em.