From the thankful heart of Bernadin Fleurima Jr.
- Tom Weber
- Dec 8
- 2 min read
CARBONDALE, Ill. — SIU senior defensive tackle Bernadin Fleurima Jr. is graduating this month and wrote a parting message of gratitude to Saluki Football.
Since the clock hit zero at Illinois State, I have had time to reflect on the year I have spent here at Southern Illinois. I’ve been surrounded by support and people who love us.
I will never forget the memories and time I spent with my brothers. From visiting kids at the juvenile detention center, to fellowship with my teammates at the Lake of Egypt, I had a blast. It pains me every day that we couldn’t play one more minute, one more snap, or have one more opportunity to show the world who we are. For the young guys, become leaders not just by what you say, but how you show up every day. Be consistent. Someone is always watching.
To my coaches, thank you for giving me the opportunity and taking a chance and believing in me. I admire your togetherness through thick and thin. Thank you for your consistent mentorship. You taught me to strive for more, taught me how to keep a proper mindset through good times and bad. I thank you Coach Davis. You already know how much respect I have for you, and even though we don’t see eye-to-eye all the time, you are always there for me. Four years of being my coach, and I’ve gotten a lifetime of knowledge.
Thank you to the defensive staff as well — Coach E, Coach Pron, Coach Mac, Coach Davis, Rece, all of you guys! Watching you guys continue to coach us and get better throughout the year was inspiring.
To the strength staff, thank you for your around-the-clock support. I will always appreciate you pushing us (maybe not in the moment). From practicing in 100° weather to running miles in the snow, you showed me I could push past the limits that I thought I had.
To Jacqueline and Chris G, the GMs!!! Thank you for everything you guys do! Win, lose or draw, you guys remained the same and offered so much encouragement to us! I cannot express how much that means to me. The impact of this place and the people will remain with me for a lifetime.
Thank you, Tom! StrongDawgs is a platform that will continue to grow, and for alumni like me, it is a fantastic resource. Our lives and past experiences are unlocked by the work you do and I will always be thankful for that!
To my teammates, please don’t be strangers. Continue to reach out and build relationships. Do not hang your head. You guys have a great group that’s special and the coaches will continue to bring in guys who will help you win games so you can party on Saturday.
I will never forget the lessons learned during those team-meeting talks in the morning with Coach Hill. It taught me to keep perspective, and that life is more about giving than receiving. I love the time I spent here. It’s a pleasure to be a Saluki for life. P.S. thank you Mike, Bri, Lexi and the AT staff, no more cramping!
Sincerely,
Bernadin Fleurima Jr.
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