As most of you college students know, your senior year can be unbelievably stressful. You try to figure out where you want to spend the next two plus years of your life, where some of the best moments of your life will occur.
When I went through that decision making process, I really came to a dead end. I had no idea what I wanted to do and no idea where I wanted to do it. My dream was always to play college tennis and make it big, but, obviously that can be a little unrealistic -- unless you're crazy talented. I was pretty sure that I had to give up on that dream and just keep tennis as a hobby, until I got a phone call from the Olivet College tennis coach. I did not know that I was about to find out that being a D3 athlete was the best way to enjoy college.
1. Instant friendships.
Having a group of girls to do everything with is so convenient. Right when I got to campus, I knew I would make at least one friend in practice. Luckily, I became instant friends with almost every girl on our team. We go to dinner together, go out at night together, go shopping together, and go to practice together. It's like I have eight sisters.
2. I get to stay in shape.
Practicing everyday becomes really rewarding. The freshman 15 for me was physically impossible.
3. I love winning.
Since tennis is both a team and an individual sport, I loved being able to win while being surrounded with girls that are as equally competitive as me. We all had such a drive to be a successful team.
4. Who doesn't love to miss out on class?
Matches during the week are an awesome (and legitimate) excuse to miss class. We all know that college students like to skip class, but now I have a real reason to.
5. Free stuff? Yes, please.
I don't know about you, but I love having sweatshirts, T-shirts, and sweatpants with my team name on them. Being on a high school team was always fun because you got the occasional team jacket or a tournament T-shirt, but on a college team, it's almost like Christmas.
6. Spring break vacation with your team.
My team was able to travel to Hilton Head Islands for spring break for a tournament. It was the perfect blend of warm beach weather and playing tennis in the sun. We got to stay in a condo and spend all day with each other.. I mean, that does sound kind of difficult -- nine girls trapped in a condo after being out in the sun all day, but I loved it.
7. Motivation.
I was pushed to my limit every day, and was always expected to be a top student and athlete. I had to receive good, passing grades to be able to play in matches, and this really helped me throughout the school year. I always had my teammates around me motivating me to be a better athlete, student, and overall person.
Sending a big thank you to my Olivet College tennis girls. I am blessed to have you in my life, and I can't wait to tear up next tennis season.
