June 26- Sarah Studler

I heard the news the morning of the 26th that a classmate of mine from high school had passed away early that morning. This post is dedicated to the friends and family of Sarah Studler, may she rest in peace.

I met Sarah in the 7th grade. I found it funny at the time (and now again in hindsight) that she seemed like a good person simply because she was the first girl that had more basketball skills than me (I get that that's not saying much, but keep in mind this was middle school and she was a girl!).

At the time we shared a mutual admiration for my super-stylish Miami Dolphins windpants (a point that we would look back upon many times, with one of us laughing and the other shaking my head), and I must say that between that and Sarah's quick wit and laughter, I knew I had met quite a unique personality.

Throughout high school, I saw Studs on a regular basis. I'm sure I am not alone when I describe my memories of her as being inviting and remarkably animated at all times. While her athletic accomplishments at Arlington are well-documented and respected, I will find her enthusiasm and seemingly everpresent smile to be the most lasting memories I have of Sarah.

Running into Sarah during breaks from college became something that transpired less and less frequently over the years, which is a sad reality that befalls many. While I was not- and would not profess to be- closer with Sarah than anyone in particular, I will say that it was always a pleasure to catch up and hear about what she had been up to in life, and always being invited into an animated and enthusiastic conversation in the process.

I hope that for her friends and family, Sarah's infectious spirit will live on, and that whenever those who loved her most think of her, they can feel an arm being thrown around them while the memory of a great young woman puts them at ease.