Confessions of an Ex-Athlete
Growing up, I didn’t experience anything special or abnormal. I went to school, joined clubs, made friends; I even had a job throughout high school. Although all of these things in my life provided me with amazing and hilarious memories, the one thing I think back to the most is playing sports. I played field hockey and softball a lot of my life, as well as dancing lyrical, modern, jazz and hip-hop. Being involved in teams like these provided me with many things like the BEST friends you could ever ask for and a healthy lifestyle. They also gave me the opportunities I needed to have to shape me into who I am—they gave me values, morals and a sense of how hard work pays off.
Now that I am in college there are so many days where I think to myself, “What would my life be like if I continued playing sports in college?” There are so many possible answers to this questions that I’ve pondered about a thousand times. Would I be a superstar or a benchwarmer? Would my grades be better or worse? Would I look a lot different? Lately, I’ve decided, that it really doesn’t matter what could have happened. I am happy who I am: a good student with great friends and a healthy lifestyle.
Yes, I miss playing sports. I miss the feeling of being on a team, winning a game, and even practicing for hours every single day. I’ve realized that I have moved on to a different stage of my life, I am involved in professional organizations that require teamwork and effort to pull off events and other things that benefit my organization. I also found out that you don’t need to be on a team to become close with friends, my friends at college love each other. We have been making memories for three years together, and we’re still going strong! No team necessary. As for being in shape and staying healthy: it can be done. My roommates and I make dinner and breakfast at home to avoid too much dining hall food or take out. Chances are your college has a recreation center or gymnasium. I go about 4-5 times every week for at least an hour. It gives me a chance to de-stress, feel great and have some time to focus on myself!
So, thank you coaches, teammates, opponents, crowds, referees and umpires. You all influenced my life so positively, without you; I truly would not be the same person I am today. You’ve given me so much and I promise I will take all of the dedication, teamwork and skills you have taught me and turn it into something great for all of you when I become a professional.