The end of any sport season always feels like the end of an era.
You spend more time with your team than your real family, and then your team becomes your family. Saying goodbye to another season means saying goodbye to another team. Getting a new team can be tough. Seniors graduate, freshmen come up, people quit, and people join. It's a huge adjustment for everyone so with that being said, here is a few things I would like to say to my new team whom I have not met yet.
It's okay if you don't understand all the inside jokes from last year. There will always be jokes and references that we have from the years before, but don't feel left out, there's plenty more memories and laughs to be made that you will get to be apart of.
Those of us that have been on the team are here to help. Chances are, any questions or concerns you have we've already asked/ have had ourselves. We're here to help all newcomers get adjusted to the team which isn't always easy. Don't hesitate to befriend the returners and come to us with anything you need. You might have to work a little harder at first. I don't mean this as a bad thing, but those of us that have been on the team previously are used to the work that's involved/ how the coach likes things done. You may have to work a little harder at first to get used to how your new team/coach does things. Again, don't be afraid to ask the vets on the team for help. Once you get into the swing of things it will get a lot easier.
Returning members will probably be a little sad at first. As hard as it is for newcomers to get used to a new team, its even harder for the returners. We miss our seniors, we miss the atmosphere of the previous season, and don't worry we'll get over it eventually, but tolerate us when we're sad at the first few practices. With that being said, we're also very excited to meet you. Getting new team mates is also exciting! Sorry when we ask you a million questions because we literally want to know everything about you.
Don't give up so easily. Those who are new to the team, we've all been where you are at one point. We all know how difficult it can be getting used to a new team or program but just bear with it for a little and I promise you will grow to love us because...we will become your new family. Whether you want us to or not, this team will become a family with a new set of goals, memories, jokes and moments to share. As sad as I am that this previous season had to come to an end, I'm ready to make moments with a new team.
