University of North Carolina Athletics
I'm A Tar Heel: Hayley Carter
April 24, 2017 | Women's Tennis
To My Tar Heel Family,
On my very first recruiting trip to UNC, I will never forget sitting down with Roy Williams and him telling me, “Chapel Hill is a special place that will stay in your heart forever.” Four years later, I am realizing just how right he was.
My time here at UNC has been the best four years of my life, and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to go to school and play at such an amazing university. There is just something special about walking the brick paths on campus and listening to the bell tower ring, instinctively yelling “Heels” whenever you hear “Tar,” rushing Franklin Street after a big basketball win, or simply getting a “Go Heels” from a stranger who sees you sporting a Carolina shirt.
I always knew the Tar Heel family was special. As a recruit, it was what led me to make UNC my home. But never has this family meant more to me than when my dad passed away this semester. In the hardest time of my life, I was surrounded by Tar Heel love. Nine of my teammates made the trip all the way to Tennessee to be with me at the funeral, professors sent flowers, and I received a countless number of cards and messages from Tar Heel alumni, staff, and supporters around the country. When people ask me what it means to be a Tar Heel, I will tell them this story. Yes, we pride ourselves on our academics and athletics, but what is so special is the bond we form and how we rally around one another at all times.
So, thank you to the Rams Club, not only for the continued support, but for giving me the chance to play for the best university in the world and become a part of this family. Thank you to the athletic department for providing me with every opportunity to succeed. Thank you to my coaches for having my back through every part of my journey. Thank you to my teammates for going to battle with me on the court and becoming my best friends off. And thank you to the fans for making it an honor to represent the Carolina Blue.
Every single time I step into the classroom or out onto the court, I do my very best to make you all proud. Coming into school, my number one goal was to try to leave a lasting impact on UNC, but along the way, UNC is the one that left a lasting impact on me. I am a better student and tennis player leaving this university, but more importantly, I am a better person.
So, yes Roy, Chapel Hill is a special place that will stay in my heart forever. I am and always will be a Tar Heel.
Go Heels!
Hayley
