You'll hear people say to you all the time that you're going to miss high school. That these are the best days of your life and to not take them for granted. For high school athletes this is so very true. Out of my high school career, the best and some worst days of my life were because of the blood, sweat and tears I put into my high school sports. Even after over two years of being out of high school, I still miss the rush of it.
1. Being in such good shape.
I remember being so healthy and being able to eat whatever I wanted and still looking good.
2. The weird rituals and traditions.
Because laying your legs on the wall and listening to remixes of El Chapo is going to make you win.
3. Wearing your jersey to school on game day.
Having your favorite number and last name on your back is a feeling of pride and there is nothing like it.
4. Seeing your family in the stands.
Rain or shine, they were there cheering you on the entire time. Maybe even smack talking the rivals parents if they're really rad.
5. Playing your rivals.
Because nothing feels better than knowing it is going to be a tough game. Except winning against them of course.
6. The blinding lights.
Being under the blinding lights was exhilarating and although they blinded you on multiple occasions, it was worth it.
7. The smell of a freshly painted field.
The look and smell of this stuff was like a drug for me. Just wish I didn't fall and stain my home jersey with the yellow paint.
8. Being a part of something larger than yourself.
We were a team, win or lose, we had each others backs and would always be there to defend and protect.
9. Your coach.
They drove you to not only insanity but to your limit. When you didn't believe in yourself, he/she did with no doubt in their minds. Coaches, you are the real MVP and thank you for all that you do.
10. The bus rides.
On the way there everyone was so pumped. Yelling about everything that they could think of and getting us ready to fight. On the way home we would all try to stay up but we all knew we were going to pass out as soon as we could. And the pictures were priceless.
11. Missing class.
Class > games. Always.
12. Winning.
Each scar is a story and a memory of your time as a high school athlete.
I wouldn't trade my atheletic high school years for anything. The bruises, blood, scrapes, money and time caused by sports was all worth it. Being a apart of something that was so life changing was definitely worth the loses and pain we all went through.