Looking back on my four years of high school, my favorite memories include my time spent playing sports. It does not matter which sport it was; all of them hold a special place in my heart for the good times I had playing each one. Sports were a huge part of my life at this point. I would spend hours each day after school practicing and many weekends playing in tournaments. In the moment of my last game, I did not realize how much I would miss it. I did not realize what a huge impact it had over my life and I would give anything now for one last game. High school seniors, enjoy every moment and do not take it for granted. Here are my top three reasons why you will miss about being part of a sports team once you are no longer on one.

1. Unlikely friendships

There is something about being a part of a team that brings people together who otherwise probably would not connect. Friendships between people of all backgrounds and personalities are formed. People of all ages come together who share a love for a specific sport and it makes for the best friendships. Because of sports, I was able to say I had friends in every grade at my high school. Teammates can always count on one another to have each other's best interest at heart and it is truly a one-of-a-kind relationship.

2. Fitness and routine

During high school, my workouts consisted of practices and games or matches. I’d spend hours each week on the tennis court or soccer field. It became a routine and I had adjusted to always counting on it. Now, in college, I have found myself lost. Workouts are at the gym and I would give anything to be back pushing and challenging myself alongside my teammates doing something we all love. Sports encouraged hard work and kept me in the best shape. They also served as an escape from the chaos of high school and worked as a stress reliever.

3. Competition

One of the best feelings is fulfilling your personal goals and achieving a victory. The competition aspect of sports was always one of my favorite parts of being on a team. Hearing teammates and coaches cheer you on was all the motivation needed to give each game or point your all. Nothing beats the feeling you get after winning a game or match and knowing you helped contribute to it.

Overall, whether you were on a sports team in middle school, high school or in the stands cheering players on, there is something to be missed. It is easy to get wrapped up in the everyday practices and lose sight of the fact that it is all ending so quickly. From the friendships made and bonding with coaches, to staying in shape through daily routines and exercises, to the fierce competition, there is something everyone involved will miss about athletics. Treat each match or game like it is your last and relish every moment. Through all the ups and the downs, they will forever be some of your best memories to look back on.