Dear Volleyball, Softball, and Track and Field--
Never would I have thought that I would have the opportunity to continue my athletic career through college. I shall discuss each of you individually because you all played specific roles in my life.
Softball, we had a rough start at the age of 5--you hit me in my eye…. lol. After that moment, I would have never expected to dedicate 17 years of my life to you. All those long weekends, hot summers, and cold winters really developed me into the person I am today. You helped me step out of my comfort zone being an only child and helped me make friends. You also gave me something to look forward to during the week. You and I had a slow progression of ability--I used to be so mad when my throws would be so high in the air or when I didn't get a hit. However, through all that--you taught me heart and fight. You taught me the importance of never giving up and how to put time and effort into the things that I want to get done.
I very much relate this to the saying "Prayer without work, is dead." Playing just at school wasn't good enough for me, you allowed me to join travel ball/showcase teams that allowed me to travel all over while making everlasting friendships. Softball, you were my ride or die, the goat, and the original OG in my life. No matter how many bruises, injuries, strikeouts, or errors I might have gotten--you molded me into the woman I am today, and I will forever be grateful.
Volleyball--We started off late in the game with me wanting to try out for my middle school team. I remember going into the YMCA in the racquet ball room trying to pass to myself and couldn't quite figure it out. You brought out another side of me athletically that I fell in live with. You brought out the competitive side of me that made me fall in love with the game. I never thought the girl that started off playing volleyball would end her collegiate career as a 2x CIAA champion.
You gave me friendships that I will cherish forever---including my coach, Coach Goree who gave me opportunity in collegiate athletics. You challenged my mind on another level as far as remembering plays, having control on the court as a setter, and the fast pace setting the game requires. I might have started playing you later in life…but you will forever have a special place in my life.
Track and Field--- By far one of the best decisions I made while attending Shaw University. While I only did one event--Javelin, I had a time of my life. Trying to learn a new sport so late in my athletic career was so refreshing. You brought in a bright light for my senior year in college. When I needed you to lean on--you were there. I remember participating in my first meet at NC A&T and I was amazed to just see all the athletes. I also gave major kudos to the athletes that did the other events---especially any running events and long jump. You also allowed to make history with being a tri-collegiate athlete. You also allowed me to be introduced to my coach, Coach Smith that will be a forever connection to me! Coach Smith really took the time with me in helping me with the technique but not short coming my goals regardless of how late in the game I started in learning. You were the highlight of my senior year and I can't thank you enough.
To all my sports together--thank you. Thank you for pushing me and keeping me motivated, thank you for being my outlet when I felt I had no-one else to listen to, and thank you for molding me into the person I am today. If I could do it all over again I would.
The experiences and opportunities I received from being an athlete is something I will never take lightly. You gave me everything and now it is my time to give back. Taking on this journey of becoming a Sports Social Worker and advocating for resources for student athletes and their mental health is a journey that you prepared me for. Whatever is thrown at me—I am ready because of you. So, thank you.