As I reflect on this season of thanksgiving, I am reminded of how much I have to be grateful for. Life moves quickly between work, family, coaching and countless events, but this time of year allows me to pause and truly appreciate the blessings in my life.
First and foremost, I am thankful for my husband, Larry, and my two wonderful daughters who keep us both busy and continually inspired. Amber is a freshman at Elmhurst University, and Izzy is a junior at Oconto Falls High School. Amber was a three-sport athlete who played on a national club volleyball team, and Izzy is following in her footsteps as a three-sport athlete who also competes at the national level.
Our calendar is full, to say the least. Between tournaments, practices and school activities, life can feel like one big whirlwind, but Larry is the steady force that keeps us grounded. He travels everywhere to support us and never wavers in his encouragement. We simply couldn’t live this fast-paced, fulfilling life without his love, patience and commitment. He is our rock.
I’m also grateful for my family and friends who bring laughter, perspective and joy into my life. They remind me that gratitude doesn’t always come from big moments, but often from simple ones like a last-minute dinner invitation, a quick text message or a catch-up moment in the hallway.
I am also deeply thankful for my health. In December of 2023, I was diagnosed with cancer, and the year that followed was filled with chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. It was a difficult road, one I never imagined I would walk, but even in my hardest moments, I felt surrounded by grace.
God placed amazing people in my life to lift me, guide me and help me navigate each step. The kindness, support and strength I experienced during that time changed me. Today, I count my blessings daily and am more grateful than ever for the gift of health and for the power of faith, resilience and community.
Another blessing in my life is my career. I knew from the moment I attended a middle school career day that I wanted to be a physical education teacher, and I’ve never regretted that choice. I truly believe I have the best job in the world. I get to teach elementary physical education, and there is nothing quite like the joy of watching my students’ faces light up when they walk into the gym for their favorite game. Their excitement fuels me.
Coaching has also brought tremendous gratitude. As the Oconto Falls varsity volleyball coach, I am grateful for my coaching staff, athletes and their families. I’m thankful for the successes we’ve shared and for the culture our athletes have helped build. None of it would be possible without their dedication, the countless hours in the gym and weight room, their willingness to grow and their belief in each other and in our program.
We are fortunate to have a school district that values athletics and invests in our student-athletes. Our athletic director is committed to developing future leaders through sports. Our athletic trainer provides exceptional care and is always available, no matter the time or day. Bellin Health has been an incredible partner in keeping our athletes healthy and able to return to play safely. We are also blessed with an outstanding strength and conditioning coach who develops our athletes physically while building genuine relationships with them. It truly takes a village to build a program, and I am grateful for ours.
This Thanksgiving season, my heart is full. I am thankful for my family, for health, for the calling God placed on my life as an educator and coach, and for the people who walk beside me every step of the way. Life isn’t always easy, but it is always worth celebrating and this year, I am celebrating with a grateful heart.
Rochell Otto is a physical education teacher at Oconto Falls Elementary School and the Oconto Falls High School varsity volleyball coach.
