Dating an athlete is one of the most rewarding and challenging of relationships you will ever be in. Their love is on and off the playing field, and you are a new player on the team. There are many truths of dating an athlete that many people avoid due to possibly turning people away. Stick it out, because dating an athlete is an opportunity you can't pass up. Whether or not you are an athlete yourself, you now have your biggest fan to support as well.
1. Never expect them to "let you win"
Athletes are generally competitive people, and will not go down without a fight. Whether it is a simple game of Monopoly or playing 1-v-1, your significant other refuses to let up. They will never sacrifice their game to let you win, but instead will love to see you fight for a victory! Fight for a win and show them you are a force to be reckoned with.
2. Have a flexible schedule
With so many games, tournaments, and practices, you have to be able to combine your schedules together to allow time for your relationship. If you schedule to work on the only day he has no practice, there is tension. If you plan ahead with upcoming games, you should be able to attend them all. It's hard at first making things run smoothly, but after a few months, you'll remember their practice schedule for weeks at a time.
Bonus Points: Plan dates ahead of time. If both of you agree on a set day, there will be no conflicts to tear apart time together. Plus the stress of planning will be behind you once the day arrives. Time to just enjoy each others company!
3. Food and foot massages
Want to win your athletic lover's heart? Bring them some good old protein and rub their feet after a hard game. I have gotten Chipotle or Buffalo Wild Wings for my boyfriend after his basketball games almost every week and trust me -- he thanks me for it. The key to someone's heart is food. Bonus points for a foot massage—even more if it turns into a tickle fight.
4. Athletic ware as leisure ware is accepted
Ever feel ashamed in just basketball shorts or your sweatpants around your boy/girlfriend? Has it only been a few weeks of talking and you are afraid to opt out your skinny jeans? I can guarantee you that your ballin' crush will not think any less of you for showing up to chill out in sweatpants and a hoodie. You will see them enough in athletic clothing post-game and will not then twice about it. Comfort is key, so rock those Nike joggers that you've never once ran in.
5. Love them, love their sport
No matter whether it is cheerleading or baseball, you must learn to love their sport. Your significant other is dedicating a large amount of time, money, and passion into their sport; you should be accepting and supportive. Not only going to their games, but watching games with them can help you build knowledge of basic concepts. This helps create a connection and bond for you two over one of your passions!
As always, understand you are your own person. Your passions in life take you however far you wish to go. The success and goals of your significant other's athletic career should be fully supported by you. They as well should support your choices you wish to make.
