Dear High School Sports,

I'm sorry I ever took you for granted. You relieved my stress, provided me with an outlet for my anger and frustration, and kept me in shape. You introduced me to my best friends and helped me to further grow and develop my relationships with them. You were there for me every day from 3:30-5:30 pm. To be honest, I dreaded your arrival each day, but now I realize it is what I miss most about high school.

At the time, you were really a pain in the butt. After seven straight hours of grueling work, struggling through quizzes, and dealing with teachers, sports practice was the last thing I wanted to endure. Let's be realistic, no one wants to run three miles or weave through a series of cones when they know that three hours of homework awaits them soon after. Don't blame me for my ignorance, I was a tired and emotionally drained high schooler.

Now, if I could return to any moment from high school, I'm sure I would choose one related to you. There was nothing better than being on a freshly cut grass field, surrounded by your best friends, sporting the school uniform, and being in arguably the best shape of your life. So many nights I spent with you; huddled up with my teammates under the lights, nerves and excitement bundled tight in our chests as fans filled the stands, the common goal of victory shared between us.

So many tears I cried over you; tears of joy when we came out on top, tears of despair after playing through two double over-times only to lose in penalty kicks, and bittersweet tears when I knew my high school sports career had ended. I miss the anticipation of game day, the triumphant excitement of a win, and the unmistakable bond I shared with my teammates. Each season you gave me hope and determination to set new goals and accomplish them, and for that I am grateful.

So thank you; for getting me through hard times, for distracting me from my other obligations, for preventing obesity, for instilling motivation and passion within me, and for providing me with some of my fondest memories. Without you I wouldn't have experienced team jam sessions to Nicki Minaj, remakes of "Eggs, Grits, Bacon, Sausage", unforgettably absurd team sleepovers, and gorging on pasta at team dinners. I know we can never be together again, not as we once were, but just know how much I appreciate everything you did for me. I did not always love your existence, but I needed it. You have made me the teammate, and person, that I am today.

With love,

A College Student Now Dependent on the Treadmill