As girls, we’ve all heard once or twice you should never date an athlete for the following reasons: he lacks commitment, carries around nothing but a huge ego, is dumber than a bag of rocks, and is beyond question a player. I’m not saying these aren’t true (for some)- because they are. But looking past all of these reasons and actually dating an athlete, I’ve also learned so much more than what’s often displayed on the surface.

1. They're driven.

Athletes know what they want and they know what it takes to get it. They’re completely goal-oriented, having dedicated a majority of their lives to their sport. They’ve worked incredibly hard to get where they are on and off the field. They know not only perseverance but dedication. If an athlete see’s something they want, they will stop at no cost to get it. Let’s just hope that what they want is you because you know they won’t give up that easily and walk away if times get tough.

2. They're competitive and extremely stubborn.

It’s almost like it’s in their blood. In life, you will not succeed unless you’re competitive- and this is especially true for athletes. But that part of them doesn’t just shut off in a relationship. They continue to thrive off competition and strong mindedness. So if you’re equally as aggressive and stubborn as them, things will get interesting and eventually, someone will have to (unwillingly) give in, even if that means losing your pride along with the last slice of pizza.

3. You will get jealous.

It’s inevitable. As much as you’d like to believe you won’t get jealous over other girls giving him attention, you most likely will. Of course this can be said about any relationship, but with athletes, it pretty much comes with the territory. Dating the star athlete is something all high school girls want, so when you actually have the all star quarterback at your side you have to learn to trust him. Trust that he’ll make the right decisions and let all of those girls know who his #1 really is. But also remember that trust is a two-way street.

4. They're always hungry.

This is not an exaggeration, so trust me when I say that you will never have any leftover food while dating an athlete. You’ll go out to eat, and within an hour, he’ll be hungry and want to eat again. If your fridge is stocked, know that he’ll be the first one there to clean it out. It’s not his fault. Athletes just need more food to fuel their bodies. In fact, there may be times where you’ll need to sacrifice that last slice of pizza or those fries just because you know he needs it more. There will never be a moment during your relationship when he’s not eating, thinking of eating, or thinking of thinking of eating.

5. Their time isn't theirs.

For those four (or five) years that they’re on that sports team, they don’t really run their lives. The coaches (and basically everyone in the Athletic Dept.) has the ability to tell them where to go and when to be there. Early- morning team meetings? Late-night lifts? Attending another team’s game? They’ll be there. Dating these athletes requires tons of sympathetic understanding and a tough skin on your part. Just because they had to miss your birthday (and I’ve had my fair share of moments missed) doesn’t mean they didn’t want to be there. Many of their choices aren’t theirs to make and require you to be flexible as well. But it all pays off because watching them succeed in something they love is truly one of the best feelings there is.

6. Get used to the sweat and smells.

They will be doing intense workouts, attending long practices, and will wear their favorite shorts or spandex to every game. They may not smell great but love them for them and if it bothers you that much but grateful you’re not the mother in charge of doing their laundry every night.

7. You'll become his #1 fan.

With school, practice, and other extracurriculars, his life is pretty hectic. So be there for him when things get stressful. Wish him luck before every game and every school quizzes and exams (make sure he studies for said quizzes and exams.) Never let him forget how proud you are of his accomplishments, and always encourage him to do his best. But also know when you need to step back and give him space after a long practice or tough loss. Don’t baby him; just be there for him- like he should be for you.

While dating an athlete might sound fun- and it is- it’s also incredibly difficult with their schedules. So know that you’ll both have to make sacrifices, and like any couple, you’ll have more than a fair share of ups and downs. But never give up because some relationships are just worth fighting for.