We go through life looking for things to do, groups to be a part of, hobbies to acquire, etc. When we find something that we are passionate about, our lives become consumed in it. We live by the motto, "It's not just ___, it's a way of life." For myself, I have found this passion through the Wichita State Bowling Program. My time in the program has been filled with many memories although it has completely flown by. Now that I am older and I am meeting girls that are going to become a part of the program after I graduate, I am starting to realize how much I have grown and I am excited to be able to see these girls grow, just as I have.
So, to the girls that become part of this program after I am gone, cherish every single moment, good or bad. There are always going be times that things get hard, but these are the times that you will grow together the most. Let's be honest, you are a big group of girls and you are not always going to get along, but that is completely okay. Find the things that you love the most about each other and dwell on those things. Find any excuse you can to hang out with your teammates. Take as many videos and pictures as your phone will allow and save them for a rainy day. Many times they will get funnier and funnier, trust me. These girls are your family for the duration of your time in the program.
Learn from and respect the girls who have come before you, because the amount of talent and character these women display is phenomenal. Do not be afraid to start a conversation with any of them, whether that be via Facebook or any other form of social media. They are your teammates as well. You will have a very diverse team, just like others before you, but there are over 40 years worth of other women that you can know and learn from. These are women from all over the world that have done the same things that you will be going through. Use them as resources!
Seize every opportunity to make new memories. Understand that everything you learn in your 2 on 1's is going to benefit you in the long run and that you can never stop improving your physical game. Never take your small team meetings for granted. These meetings are private and 100% structured to improve your personal, mental game. If you do not take advantage of these, you are doing nothing but hurting yourself. Finally, the ultimate rule of thumb, the easiest way to make Coach L happy is an Oreo McFlurry.
I have learned so much from the women that came before me in this program and I hope that I can be as influential to some of you as they were for me. So come up with an awesome cheer and totally rock it during your tournaments. Throw lots of grenades and never be afraid to have a ton of fun. These memories are going to stick with you forever. I love all of you baby shocker sisters.
-Holly Johansen
