𝑬𝑺𝑷𝑵 𝑹𝑬𝑷𝑶𝑹𝑻: Nijaree Canady’s Open Letter to Texas Tech, Lubbock, and the People Who Believed in Her
LUBBOCK, TX — In a moment that has touched hearts across college sports, Texas Tech softball star Nijaree Canady has written a deeply personal open letter to the community that shaped her journey — a heartfelt tribute to Texas Tech University, Red Raider fans, and the city of Lubbock.
Shared through her foundation’s website and social channels, the letter is a reflection of her gratitude, growth, and unwavering love for the people who supported her on and off the field.
“To the people who made me believe —
When I first arrived in Lubbock, I was just a girl with big dreams, a glove in my bag, and a heart full of hope. I didn’t know what this chapter would hold. I only knew I wanted to give everything I had to this game — and to the people who gave me a chance.
Now, looking back, I realize that it wasn’t just about softball. It was about finding a home, a purpose, and a community that embraced me for who I was, even on the days when I didn’t feel like my best self.
To Coach and the staff — thank you for seeing the player I could become, even when I doubted myself. You didn’t just build me as an athlete. You built me as a woman, a leader, and a human who believes in giving back.
To my teammates — y’all are my sisters. We’ve laughed, cried, battled, and grown together. And no matter where life takes us, the memories we made will stay in my heart forever. We built something bigger than wins. We built trust. Family. Legacy.
To the fans of Lubbock — you are different. You showed up in the heat, in the wind, in the hard games and the great ones. You screamed my name like I was yours. And I was. I still am. You made me feel like I mattered beyond the scoreboard. That meant everything.
To the kids who looked up to me — I saw your signs, your smiles, your little softball gloves reaching over the fence. I played for you more than you know. And that’s why I launched A Hope Rising Foundation. Because every child deserves support, no matter their background or abilities. You inspired that. You gave me that purpose.
I came to Texas Tech chasing a dream. I’m leaving with a mission.
No matter where this path takes me — whether it’s pro ball, coaching, or something I haven’t even imagined yet — just know this: Lubbock is forever part of me. Texas Tech made me. And I’ll never stop being grateful.
This isn’t goodbye. This is love.
Forever a Red Raider,
Nijaree Canady”*