Growing up, everyone always wanted to be a part of something. Whether it was Girl Scouts, Awana at the local church or a sports team, you felt complete to have a group of people you could connect with every week. I was lucky to be a part of an amazing traveling basketball team where I met some of my best friends. These friends still continue to have a very important part of my life today.
Through the many years of week-night practices and weekend tournaments, I learned life lessons that I always have in my back pocket. The first is working as a team. Sitting in long car rides each week with your teammates was the best part of the trip, and great bonding time to create better chemistry on the court. Obviously you can't play basketball all by yourself, just like you can't succeed in class projects, jobs, or any other aspect of your life without working with others.
I also learned how to take criticism. It doesn't matter if it was a nice yell or a loud roar so the whole gym knew that you screwed up, the criticism helped me learn how to handle it. Although the coach was my father, I learned how to listen to authority, while only giving some mouth back. Having a coach growing up always teaches kids to listen to authority, because there will always be someone higher up than you. There will be professors or your boss in your future career. If you are the top dog and your own boss, then good for you, big shot. We all wish we were you.
One of the biggest lessons I learned was knowing we always had people rooting for us. From parents to teammates, there was always support which is really important in life. There are always people on our side, supporting us through our achievements. Even in college, professors are always looking for ways to help you build your future, as well as your parents.
Finally, the biggest benefit of playing on a traveling basketball team was the friendships I made. It was really like a second family. It didn't matter if you went to school with them or grew apart throughout high school. Most of the time you are able to reconnect with them in this big world we call college. Arriving at a new school with a few of your old teammates is a hidden blessing.
I am so thankful that my parents paid and supported me throughout the traveling years. I am sure many others can relate as well. The benefits will last a lifetime and all the time is so worth it. In many, many years, for me anyways, when we have our own kids, I highly recommend allowing them to be a part of such a great atmosphere. The impact is priceless.
-- HOOPS Nation for life.
