There comes a moment in every athletes life to finally throw in the towel. Whether it be because of NCAA rules, injury or time constraints, it is never an easy decision. This generation has thrived and grew up on sports. There was a time, much long ago, that women were not even allowed to participate in leisure sports, let alone collegiate athletics. And now some of the most talented, well-known athletes are women.
Every athlete knows that there is no greater satisfaction than working around the clock to better themselves and their team. It comes from the individual themselves working hard, pushing their limits and working off other teammates. It is a process of trial and error, success and failure.
It builds character, personality, strengths and bonds. And those lessons can never be taken back.
Ending a career as an athlete comes with its own set of lessons, obstacles and no lack of tears. It is difficult to not be part of something you love, that is bigger than yourself. Something that holds tradition, responsibility and admiration.
Teammates are no longer people you see after class 5x a week: they are friends, family and blood. They see you at your absolute worst and see you in your shining glory. Either way, they love you just the same. Teammates will irritate you like little sisters, route you on like doting parents and pick up the pieces of a bad day like the friend they are.
It is so hard to put in words the emotions I have after quitting cross country. The sport I have loved for the last 6 years. The sport that has given me confidence, ambition, courage, friends, and a lifestyle. To that I could never say enough. To all those who have ever ran beside me or against me, thank you.
