Reaching Back to the Torero

By Ryan McCrary

Thanks to all who took the time to read and relate to my birthday edition blog post. Today, I am going to jump into the time machine and write a letter to myself just before I start my first “real job” fresh out of Gonzaga University.

Dear Ryan:
I know you’ve watched Back to the Future. Think of this as a note from Marty McFly to his 1998 self. Instead of Michael J. Fox, it’s your 40-something self reaching back. Don’t worry… the meddling with the time/space continuum will be minimal.

Congratulations on completing your Master’s Degree. A bit later I will be writing a note to your 2016 self congratulating you for finally paying off your student loan. But right now congratulations are in order! Fresh degree. Fresh new job in San Diego. Well done!

Before we get started with advice for success promoting the University of San Diego athletics department as an assistant SID, please humor me and run your hands through your thick hair. I’ll wait. Yes, I am serious. In about three years you will miss being able to do this.

Ten Torero Lessons to remember

1. Coaches are maniacs. BUT they are passionate about what they are building and the student-athletes playing for them. Do not forget this. No, this will not be easy.
2. Your boss, Ted, will be one of the most important figures in your professional development. When he tells you to relax… and this will happen many times… take the advice and do it. No, this will not be easy either.
3. When your boss says take a day to enjoy the sun, do it. San Diego has so much more to offer than what is found in the confines of your office. There are beaches. It will be 75 degrees on your first San Diego Christmas… Really! This will be easy.
4. Take the time to get to know your peers in the department. You are all young and overworked, but soon you will rise and advance to some really cool stuff. Connections made here will help everyone down the road.
5. You will not enjoy scoring baseball games. You have never done it before and people (parents) will challenge you and argue with you. Do your best. Listen to reason and seek advice. At the end of the day, no footage from these games will be available.
6. Invest in a bucket hat and wear it every time you are exposed to the sun for more than six minutes at a time. 
7. Reapply sunblock every hour. I cannot stress this enough.
8. Please read and repeat Nos. 4-5 again. Trust me.
9. Money will be tight. You will not starve. You will be fine.
10. Things that are free: the beach, hiking trails, Balboa Park, working out at USD – take advantage of the amazing city you’re in… visit and meet the locals!

In closing, this is an exciting time to be alive. I know it is all new and you are living in a place bigger than anywhere you’ve ever been. Enjoy it. Suck the marrow out of it. You’ve got this.

Right now, I have to go fix the flux capacitor. Someday, you’ll understand.

Sincerely,
Ryan McCrary, circa 2022