From cross country runners to cheerleaders, it's time to recognize the fact that fall athletes are currently working to meet their full potential, and doing their absolute best before the real season begins and games commence.

1. They are up every day before 7 a.m.

You know this because they Snapchat their streaks at 7 a.m. of their field, court, or gym and caption it "back to the grind."

2. They practically live in their gear.

It's not uncommon to see people wearing field hockey pinnies and black Nike shorts long after practice concludes around 12. These pinnies are worn for nearly five hours a day for the weeks leading up to the beginning of school, so of course they become a daily necessity.

3. Their teammates become their family.

When you spend five hours a day with people, (usually a lot more when it comes to tournaments, professional games, meetings, fundraisers, and team parties,) it's hard for them not to feel like family. You go through so much with your team. From dreaded two mile runs, to extended practices that take up the whole day, to team-building events, it's hard to not grow to love them and consider them your closest friends.

4. They spend more time on the field, court, or gym than they do at home.

And even if they are home for once, they're practicing drills or studying plays.

5. They never have time to hang out.

They are so committed to the sport that they love; whether it be practice, a scrimmage, a tournament, or team-bonding, they spend 99% of their time with the team.

6. They are always sore.

Whether it be from weight lifting, sprints, or drills.

7. Instead of water bottles, they carry around huge jugs and coolers to last the whole day.

Here's a tip for athletes during preseason; don't just bring a water bottle. It doesn't last, plus, even if you refill it from the team cooler, it will get hotter and hotter throughout practice. Try a cooler or a jug instead! It doesn't look silly or extra. Everyone does it.

8. They're always carrying their equipment.

Although they spend over five hours a day practicing their sport, they love it so much and always have the motivation and drive to get better.

9. They are in shape!

Ask me to run two miles or complete the beep test during off-season, and I probably won't make it through without throwing up. But, in preseason, athletes are trained to be able to get through their games, matches, and meets. They have to be in top physical shape, so ask me again during preseason, and I'll be able to give it my all and be proud.

10. Summer is over when August begins.

Usually, Summer concludes in the beginning of September. However, for Fall athletes, preseason begins in the beginning of August. Similar to school, preseason requires being at your school early in the morning. Which is an added bonus, because the athletes are prepared to wake up early when school begins.

11. They never answer their phones!

Mostly because they are always at practice.

12. The athletic trainer is never in his office.

This is their busiest time of year. Always running around campus, stopping by every field, gym, court, and track.

13. The campus is NEVER empty.

There's always football players shouting drills, the sound of rackets hitting balls, cheer stunts being put up in the air, or balls being kicked. It's never quiet because there's always a practice going on, a team car wash occurring, or a team-bonding event taking place.

14. Nobody's hair or makeup is done.

Practice takes up so much time and it's just not really worth it at this point.

15. Tan line season is upon us!

Unfortunately, for fall athletes, the season concludes right when the Homecoming Dance occurs. Which, of course means short dresses. This will lead to bare legs being shown. And, rough as it is, tan lines will be exposed. Half of your leg is white as snow from being hidden by shin guards, and the other half is sun-kissed from being exposed to the sun all day long.

Although preseason tends to be tough, it's always worth it in the end, especially when your beloved team takes home a state championship title! Of course, we all complain about preseason and dread the day it begins. However, when I truly think about it, fall preseason may just be my favorite time of year. I love the feeling of getting to know and becoming close with your team, learning about your coach and working with them, pushing yourself each day, and putting in so much effort and commitment to the sport that you love. I love accomplishing goals, and there's just an amazing feeling that comes along with preseason. It's like falling in love with the sport all over again. New beginnings, and a chance to work harder than ever and earn your coveted spot on the team.