For any athlete, it's that time of year again where you question why you play sports and why you ate so much over the off season. Preseason. The one word that will make you cringe but eager all at the same time. As preseason approaches for some athletes, here are 8 ways to survive the grueling task of making it to the regular season.
1. Block out the pain
You are going to do so many sprints, so many miles, so many insane workouts that you won't know your arm from your leg because you'll be so sore. Remember, it is better to feel this pain now then during playoffs or a conference game. Acknowledge the pain, but push it aside as you go out on the field or court.
2. Don't stress too much on the fitness test
The fitness test is a way for the coaches to see your fitness level before the season starts. While some coaches use this to determine the top string versus the bottom strong, remember you have a full week for preseason and a whole season to prove you have what it takes to be a starter. If you don't do well in the fitness test portion, put all your effort into the drills and other parts of preseason to show you have strengths.
3. ICE ICE ICE REST REST REST
If you're feeling sore and burnt out and realize it's only day one of preseason, ice and rest that body. There is an unspoken rule during preseason where it is socially acceptable to sleep more than when you are awake. Take care of you and your body because you have a long haul of season still left.
4. Bond with your team
If you're in a team sport, preseason is a time for bonding. As scary as it is to be mentally and physically pushed to your limits and then past them, know your whole team is going through the same experience. Surprisingly, you're not the only one thinking about your fitness time or wondering if that turf burn on your thigh will stick to your sheets. Use your team as your crutch and be there for each other. After all, you are family.
5. Be competitive
Wait, didn't we just talk about bonding with our team and now you're saying be competitive? Preseason is a weird time. Your team is your family but also your biggest competition. If you and your best friends are battling for the same position, fight hard because the harder you fight, the better you make them. You're pushing them to be the best they can be and perform at a high level. You're still best friends, but save the BFF bracelet making for off the playing field.
6. Don't hold grudges to long
If you get beat out by a freshman and you are a senior, don't hold onto a grudge too long. The job of the freshmen are to push you and make you a better player. They are young blood who are running scared. You are a seasoned vet who knows the ropes but has a few dents and rust. You get beat out on a drill, play harder and show them what it means to have experience. Don't mope around about it. Get out there and earn your play time.
7. Cry
Preseason is an emotional time. Your body is tired. Your mind is shot and you miss home. It's okay to let out your emotions in tears. Better yet, find a teammate to cry with. Crying isn't a sign of weakness. Its a sign you have pushed your body so hard and to it's fullest potential that all you have energy to do it cry.
8. Take it all in
While this week may be marked as "hell week", make sure to take time to enjoy it. You puked up your eggs after running six full field sprints, perfect. It'll be a great story once season is over. You can't wash your hair while in the shower because your arms are so sore? Even better. Preseason only happens four times during your college career and by the last one, it'll mark the end of hell and the start of the last of everything. Last home game. Last bus ride. Last hotel room sleepover. Last preseason... Well that one doesn't sound too bad.
