For the longest time, I bounced around different sports and teams trying to find what best fit me. I tried it all, basketball, softball, soccer, cheer, etc. There was just one more sport I hadn’t yet tried; volleyball. My mom signed me up for the YMCA, and from there I knew where I belonged.
Volleyball quickly became my biggest passion. I couldn’t wait to go to practice and continue to learn and grow, and challenge myself to be better.
As I moved to more competitive teams, I saw improvement within myself and I even considered playing at the collegiate level.
Going into my freshman year, I had made- what I thought would be my forever team, and the freshman high school team as well. I was so excited to be a part of the two. I felt great about myself knowing that I had made both of the teams I was aiming for.
Though my high school team lost all but one game, I was thankful to experience that part of high school sports. Soon enough, club season was here. Me and my team were putting in hours of practice, growing closer and closer to one another. This season was going to be one for the books.
As the season went on, I had little to no complaints. Of course it wasn’t perfect, but I was happy with where I was at. Strong relationships with my teammates and coaches, having the most fun I’d ever have while playing, and finally being on a winning team!
It felt like no time before tryouts were here again. Although,these open gyms had a weird and unfamiliar feeling. All of a sudden my coaches were less friendly and it had seemed like I was being forgotten about. I had so many questions, thoughts, and concerns. However, I kept quiet and continued giving it my everything.
Tryouts were here. My number wasn’t listed below any teams, I got cut. I couldn’t think straight. I was embarrassed, hurt, and didn’t understand why. I went home and my parents begged me to try out for another team. My confidence was crushed, I couldn’t show my face in a gym again.
After days of wondering why- why something I loved so much was taken away from me by coaches I called family, I finally accepted that it was over. A sport I had played for six years and could be myself in most, had run its course. I had come to terms with that. I decided that I had to do something though. I couldn’t just do nothing. With some support, I challenged myself to step outside of my comfort zone and do things for me.
I got a job, and am able to provide for myself. I joined different clubs at school and have made friendships I could have never seen coming. Lastly, I have challenged myself to put my grades above anything else. Doing well on tests for the letter grade but also my own satisfaction. I’m content with where I am at now, though it took a heartbreak to get here. Above anything else, I’m proud of myself for exploring new opportunities and realizing there is more to life than the sport you grow up playing.
