Now that the academic year is over, and before we begin the 2019-20 season, LamarCardinals.com wanted to take a look back at what we felt were the Top 25 Moments of the 2018-19 season. The top 25 list was voted on by a panel of 15 members of the LU senior and external staff.
 
No. 8
BEAUMONT, Texas – Honorary Texas Ranger. Member of the Freeport Police Force. Now an honorary member of the Lamar University softball team. Head coach Amy Hooks announced that Abigail Arias is joining the team was an honorary member.
 
"Abigail, you are the dedication of faith, courage and fight," remarked head coach Amy Hooks. "I ask the girls standing behind you to fight for seven innings, but fight is something you do every second of every day. You live life to the fullest and don't take anything for granted and this is a lesson we can all learn from. Your story has been shared by many and inspired millions. You have touched many and that smile on your face says it all. We are happy to be a small part of your amazing journey. We would like to make you an honorary Cardinal."
 
Arias was diagnosed with kidney cancer (Wilms Tumor) in 2017 when she four-year-old. She battled for our seven months as she fought and beat it and she rang the bell and celebrated being cancer free with her family.
 
However, the worst news came as just a few months later, Arias was diagnosed for the second time with the same cancer. Arias, a fighter and battler, was ready for her battle again. This time doctors said there is nothing they can do. The Arias family is making as many memories as they can with Abigail. 
 
During a Christmas event in December, Abigail and Freeport Police Chief Garivey met -- she told him she wanted to be a police officer when she grew up to fight the "bad guys" which she refers to as her cancer inside of her.
 
On February 7th, she was sworn in as an honorary member of the Freeport Police Department badge #758 and most recently given the honors of an honorary member of the Texas Rangers. She continues to be an inspiration to all who she meets with her incredible smile and spirit to continue fighting her cancer.