In high school, I was a two-sport athlete. It is how I identified myself, what I spent almost my entire high school career doing, and how I built a majority of the friendships that I am lucky enough to still have today. Golf and lacrosse were something I was so passionate about, but I chose to go to pharmacy school instead of being a college athlete. So, what happens when it ends? When you’re no longer an athlete? I didn't want to just become the bookish pharmacy major and I couldn't imagine not identifying myself with the sports I love. What are your options?
1. Club Sports
With pretty much every sport, there is a way to continue playing, but no, it is not the same. I have tried my best to play in adult leagues, club sports at school, and any pick-up game that I can find. Unfortunately, you don’t get quite the intensity that comes from being a high school or college athlete. The rush that you get from playing is still there, but there isn't as much on the line. It is still a great way to keep up on your skills and stay in shape. The weekly practices also allow you to get your “fix” of the sport you love. Practices in college also tend to be rather flexible, so when your school week gets busy they are more understanding about missing or being late. Club sports involve longer road trips to games as well since colleges are further apart. This can lead to long drives with your teammates or even a weekend in a hotel in a city that you’ve never been to. Because there are less obligations, you’re allowed a little bit more flexibility in the fun you have on your trip as well.
2. Coach
This has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my entire life. I spent two years of college coaching lacrosse at different high schools in Indiana, neither of which were the school that I went to. Throughout the years, I had come to know most of the coaches in the state and had played for them, so they offered me a job. I had the opportunity to teach a bunch of people the sport I love and help them get through high school in general. When I coached, I worked most often with girls who had never played lacrosse. Seeing them celebrate their first goal or first win is something that could turn any bad day at school around immediately and make me feel like I was still involved in the sport I love. Having the experience to coach these girls made a substantial impact on the rest of my life and I am so thankful for that opportunity.
3. Referee
Not only a great way to make money, but also way to be incredibly involved in a sport you once loved. People are relying on you to make the correct calls and constantly quizzing your knowledge on the sport you play. Being on the field and making huge decisions in state championship games and college games is so much fun. I may not have the opportunity to play for the rest of my life, but I can improve my refereeing ability and continue refereeing higher-level games all across the country. The high-pressure situations are similar to that of playing and watching talented lacrosse is something I can do for the rest of my life.
Although nothing will quite compare to the intensity of being a full-time athlete and as sad as it is, nothing will. But I would not give up what I experienced in a million years. There are a few ways to keep the love of your sport going. If I can contribute to making the sport grow or instill the same passion that I have into someone else, then it all becomes worth it. It takes some effort, but having that small dose of the sports I love is enough to keep me happy.
