Ever since I was little, I loved to be involved in something. Whether is was soccer, dance, jump roping, you name it I wanted to do it. But I didn't find my niche until the 6th grade. I decided to give up some of my other sports and try volleyball. That was one of the best decisions I could have ever made.
As soon as I started I didn't want to stop. I wanted my life to be filled with volleyball and I immediately fell in with the sport. I spent all my free time practicing and couldn't wait until the end of the day when I could go play. After my school season, I played winter volleyball and even sometimes beach in the summer. I did this until my senior year of high school. Although there were some ups and downs, triumphs and disappointments, I still always loved the game.
Once I became a senior, I had to ask myself what I wanted to do: play one more year of club and try to play in college, or find an alternative. I ultimately decided that I was not going to play in college, so I went to a previous coach of mine, and talked to her. She told me that I could become an assistant coach in training for the club I had played for since 6th grade. Although time consuming, since I had school and another job, I still decided it was what I wanted to do. I wasn't quite sure how I was going to like it but I gave it a chance.
I immediately fell in love. It felt so rewarding to help mentor younger players. My team was so welcoming, accepting, and they wanted to hear what I had to say. I was able to help some of them improve their game and watch them grow as players. The coach I was assisting told me that she saw growth in me as well. I didn't go into the job expecting to grow, however, but I too saw the growth. I had a greater appreciation of the game, more extensive knowledge, and valuable skills in coaching that I didn't even see as possible.
I never really saw myself as a leader. I would consider myself more of a follower. Therefore, when I saw the impact I had made and reflected on all I had learned, I realized that the experience had all been worth it. I not only became a more well-rounded player, but also a more well-rounded person. If given the opportunity again, I would love to keep coaching. I am beginning to find my voice and it's already something I love and know a lot about. It was one of the greatest experiences I've had in my volleyball career and would strongly suggest coaching to anyone who wanted to deepen their love for a sport. It taught me countless things and shaped me into a more mature player and person.
