Today is the day. It's the day that years and years of hard work are going to pay off, the day that your dreams and aspirations of being a college athlete turn into reality. As soon as you take your first step onto your new court or field, so many things will change. These changes are not always easy, and there will be days when you question if this whole thing is worth it. However, the good far outweighs the bad. This gift of competing at the collegiate level is one that not many have the opportunity to receive, and it is one that you will learn to cherish with all that you have.
Coming up on a year ago this fall, I was stepping into my first season of collegiate volleyball. The craziness of preseason was overwhelming in the best way possible, and I have no doubts this is different from other sports and other levels of play. You will be pushed to your limits both mentally and physically. With this, though, you will grow as a player, teammate and ultimately as a person. Don't be afraid to go out there and give your all as a freshman. This is the only chance you have to make a first impression, and that in itself is so important.
As you begin to feel less overwhelmed with all that is happening, take the time to really get to know your teammates and coaches. These are the people that will push you, love you and be there for you for the next four years. Some of my absolute best friends just happen to be my teammates as well, and we would have never met had it not been for volleyball. Of course, your sport is your main priority only behind school, but there are so many other things that come with this new experience. Don't be afraid to seize them.
As fun as college athletics can be, there are challenges as well. Your time will be stretched thin. Maintaining a social life gets put on the back burner. At times your body will be pushed to the point of exhaustion. And you have to maintain a good GPA throughout all of this. These challenges will mold you into a stronger person, though. Learn all that you can from the hard times, and remember that there are so many who would jump at the opportunity that has been given to you.
My ultimate piece of advice is to take every day for what it is worth, and put everything you have into this experience. The next thing you know, four years will have gone by and competing is no longer an option. Enjoy this as much as you can, and be thankful for the memories that will be with you forever. Being a college athlete is such a special thing, and we are blessed enough to hold that title.
