LIFE

Photo by Jeffrey F Lin on Unsplash

Back to school season is always made extra fun with the start-up of all the amazing school sports available to really add something extra to your day. Going from the long day of learning to sweating it all out on the field or on the court is a great stress reliever and one of the best parts of high school. To make sure you have the most spectacular sports season *and* school year, we have 10 bits of advice for the student athlete. 

1. Come into try-outs with a backup plan 

The season always starts out with a *bang* with stressful try-outs. So many questions are going through your head as your play is first evaluated: Will I make it? Am I good enough? The truth is, try-outs are absolutely unpredictable. You may be top-notch at your sport, but you never know what kind of competition is going to show up. Always show up to try-outs with a backup plan of some sort. For example, if you don't make the team, you can join the school musical or tutor younger kids at your school. There are so many activities to devote your time to if not this team, so don't stress! Everything will work out the way it should. 

2. Remember to use positive affirmations

Being a student-athlete comes with a lot of nerves, so as one, you have to learn how to calm them. Before a game, competition, race or another big event, take some time alone to remind yourself that you *can* do this. You are on this team for a reason and you deserve to be here. These few minutes to yourself are the key to grounding yourself and ensuring your performance is top-notch. So, once you feel mellow enough, get out there and show everyone what you've got!

3. Take time for self-care 

The student athlete's life is always go go go... so it's important to stop sometimes. If you're a multiple-season athlete, make sure you take the advised week or two break between sports. When you can, spend your days hanging with your besties and your evenings in bubble baths and watching Netflix. If you allow yourself some time to just chill, you will perform better in your sport. Give yourself a break and take some of the strain off your body. 

Also know that it's OK to quit. If you love your sport, amazing! If you're in pain mentally and physically and find yourself dragging yourself to every practice, consider taking a different path. If something brings nothing but negativity into your life, it's not worth your time. Period. Step back and evaluate whether you really love having your sport in your life. 

4. Watch out for toxicity in the team dynamic 

Wanting to do your best at your sport is totally understandable, but it shouldn't come before being a supportive team member. Locker room dynamics should be positive and friendly. Hype up all your members, no matter what. Snide comments or excluding other girls can be really hurtful. Lead by example and make your sport a welcoming environment to all. 

5. JV is not bad!

You might find yourself on the JV team rather than the varsity spot you had your eye on—and that's okay! Being on the JV team does not make you any less of a great athlete. It may come down to having a team with a large number of athletes or some more experienced athletes. You can still perform incredibly well and have a top experience on the JV team. You are just as valid and hardworking as every girl on varsity. 

6. Pay attention to injury prevention

Being in tune with your body is a huge part of having a great season. Try to stretch before and after your practices or competitions to prevent unwanted injuries. Most schools have an athletic trainer or medical professional on campus to check out and advise injuries—so if you encounter any aches or pains, go see the trainer or take a day or two off. No missed practice is worth a season-ending injury. 

7. The social standing doesn't matter 

Sports can often become cliquey with the illusion that some sports are more popular than others. Although sports like football or soccer games may have higher attendance than cross country races, every sport has its own charms and every athlete works hard on their specific skills. We totally get thinking that your sport is the best one, but getting a ticket to a different sports game can be a new and fun experience that will also show *major* school spirit. 

8. Find the balance 

With practices that run until it's dark out, games located hours away and constant training and conditioning, student-athletes need to know how to cultivate a healthy balance between their sport and other aspects of their life. As a rule of thumb, always put your academics first. If your school offers a study hall, make sure you have one in your schedule so you can get some work done before the evening. Use the in-between times, like bus rides or bench time to get some work done. Trust, that time adds up. It's also super helpful to keep a schedule or calendar so that it's explicitly clear when you have time and when you don't. 

9. Make connections with your coaches and team captains

Having good communication with the coach of your team can make or break your experience. Something as simple as thanking your coach after every practice goes a long way, but you should also not be afraid to step up and talk to your coach about your goals for the season. Senior athletes and team captains can also be a huge support system for you. Don't be intimidated by upperclassmen! They'd be more then happy to give you a ride home or answer any of your questions about the sport. You'll have a big sister, little sister dynamic in no time. 

10. Have fun with it!

The single most important piece of advice on this list? Enjoy yourself. Do what you can to make this experience one to remember. Your team can become like your family, so take the time to get to know your teammates and help facilitate that supportive dynamic. If you're a younger team member, don't shy away from taking part in group activities. If you're older, help make the younger players feel comfortable. When in doubt, cheer your friends on. At the end of the game, you really are one big happy family.  

Frontpage image by John Torcasio on Unsplash

by Abigail Adams and Ari Sheinberg | 8/9/2021