Acl (leadership pt.2)

 

    Participating in athletics has been one of the most important experiences that has helped to shape my life, starting when I was three years old. One of my earliest childhood memories was playing with a small foam basketball and a short plastic hoop with my mom. Growing up, athletics were always a priority in my home. My older brother and dad both played college sports and my dad is a football coach. I basically built my entire identity around my sports and athletic ability. I participated in many sports growing up, including basketball, volleyball, soccer, cheerleading, dance, swimming, and track. I was able to compete in all of these sporting activities while maintaining a 3.9 grade point average in school. However, my worst nightmare came true. 

The summer of my senior year was just beginning, and I went to basketball camp. I had a starting spot on the team and was very optimistic about the upcoming season. My team was playing the most aggressive team in our conference. I was running after a break away ball when I became entangled with another player, landing on the floor. I felt a large pop in my knee.  I had never experienced that severe of pain in my entire life. 

It was clear to me that from the severity of pain that I was experiencing and the location of the pain, I had torn my ACL. The only thing I could think about while lying on the floor was that my senior year was over. After multiple conversations with my parents and doctors, I decided to try to play volleyball. I purchased a large brace to protect my knee and went into the season as a starter and a captain. The season was nothing but difficult. I was in constant pain, however I pushed through the pain in order to continue to do what I loved. I was committed to my teammates and wanted to continue to be a good leader and role model for the younger athletes on my team. My goal was to show them that determination and hard work was important.

After my knee surgery, I went into the basketball program as a manager with somewhat high expectations and eventually became very disappointed. I was a key player on the team and had earned important leadership roles. My first practice back as a manager, we went through the jerseys, and I was required to give away the number I had been wearing since I was eight years old. I also watched from the sidelines as all of my teammates played the game I loved. I felt like I had no purpose any longer and that I no longer belonged there. 

I realized that I had built my entire identity around athletics. I was unsure of what I could do if I was unable to play competitively any longer. I had to search for other interests and things I loved in order to put my time and talents to use. I’ve learned how to love and find worth in myself and not base my worth off of my athletic achievements. I also found a leadership role off the court. I was a role model to other girls about dedication to the team and how every small role is an important role.