The first note East Islip softball coach Jason McGowan ever sent Kyra Kreuscher as an 8th grader was “Dare to be great.”

She now has this quote on her glove as she continues her career at Seton Hall University.

“I am beyond proud of the player and person Kyra has become,” McGowan said. “She came to me as an eighth grader who played right field. She left EI an absolute legend.”

East Islip presented her with a Newsday Long Island Player of the Year banner that will be displayed on their outfield fence this spring and forever.

“Great motivation for my young team,” McGowan said.