I played lacrosse for around 10 straight years and still didn't get my fill of it. Yes, there were times that I hated it and cried and claimed that I was going to quit. But looking back, my only memories of playing lacrosse are fond ones. I remember the laughs, the bonding before games, and the practices in the pouring rain. So, before I get too nostalgic, here is a list of a few things that all lacrosse players will understand.

1. Your eye mask won't stop sliding down your face when you sweat.

@ DeBeer, @ STX, @ Brine: Please do better. This is really a struggle.

2. Getting a new stick is like Christmas.

Your new stick is top of the line, but your old one still looks so sad about not being used anymore it kind of breaks your heart.

3. Your stick has a name and, in your mind, is kind of like your best friend.

Basically, Lily is an extension of me.

4. You don't understand how people play other sports.

Wait, you catch the ball with your hands in this sport? Yeah, no, that's not going to work for me.

5. It doesn't matter how many times you bang your cleats together after practice, you will find either dirt or turf in your room later.

I've literally found turf in my bed before.

6. No, I am not a tennis player. I am also not a cheerleader.

Yeah, we might wear skirts too. But we're way more hardcore.

7. You practically sprint for shelter the minute you see lightning at practice.

I am literally holding a metal rod right now. Please don't strike me dead.

8. You have the power braid down to a science.

I can French-braid my hair upside down, on the back of a moving bus, while also half asleep. It's been known to happen rather often.

9. You own 5 million pairs of Nike mid-calfs.

Best socks, hands down.

10. You know what it feels like be get called for an illegal check because you get too overly violent.

I could have sworn it was outside the sphere.

11. You've gotten bruised by a lacrosse ball. Many, many times.

I basically look like I've been abused.

12. You will always love lacrosse.

And I'll always be grateful for the memories.