A note of gratitude to the greatest hockey community in the country. My life has been forever changed from my experience as a University of Maine Black Bear. When I first met coach Gendron and his staff, I knew that these people were going to be the mentors I've dreamed of. Once I visited Orono for the first time, I knew it was the perfect place for me. What I did not know at that time, was the profound affect my teammates, coaches, fans, people of Orono, and the state of Maine would forever have upon me.
 
My experience the last three years has provided me with the confidence, knowledge, and wisdom that I will expand upon forever. It is all the people, at all of the levels, that I was surrounded by that have made that possible. Putting on the Maine sweater represents much more than just being a college hockey player to me. It represents the rich history and incredible people that have done it well before me, and how it unites us for eternity. I have come to understand the magnitude of being a part of this special culture and organization, and I am forever grateful for having had that opportunity.
 
I thank the University of Maine, and all of the faculty that devoted their time and efforts to enrich my experience and knowledge. I thank Hockey East for having one of the most competitive and well established conferences in the country. I thank coach Gendron, Guite, Hillman, Schuler, St. Clair, Walsh, and Murray for their endless efforts to make me a better player and person. I thank my goalie coach Alfie Michaud for being the greatest role model and person to have learned from. I thank Paul Culina, Kevin Ritz, Wally Bydell and Jerry Laflamme for all they have done for me and my teammates. To the greatest fans in college hockey, what an honor and privilege it was to play in front of you at the historic Alfond Arena. It has been a blessing for me to live in the beautiful state of Maine and get to know it's wonderful people.
 
To the greatest teammates one could have, thank you for battling with me every day, both on and off the ice for the past three years. I will forever cherish the incredible memories we made and obstacles we overcame. This year's group was extremely special to me because of what we accomplished and the strong bond we shared. The element of not knowing what we could have done is heartbreaking, yet I am grateful for having had the year we did together. You are all my brothers for life.
 
I wish ongoing success for the program in the future. I am extremely proud to call myself a Black Bear. Thank you Orono.
 
Go Blue!
 
Sincerely,
 
Jeremy Swayman