Throughout my whole life, I have tried basketball, lacrosse, swim team, field hockey and softball. But I picked up a glove when I was 3 years old, and ever since then I haven't put it down. Growing up, I looked forward to going to every practice, every game, every tournament. When I had a bad day, softball was my outlet. Being with my team was like being with my second family. Tournament nights in the hotel room are memories I will never forget.

On and off the field I was continuously looking to get better. Getting those compliments of how good you were that game or how much you've improved was an indescribable feeling. It was throwing the last out of the game that made it feel like all your hard work paid off.

Of all the great coaches I have had, I had one that killed my passion for the game. Although I no longer hold a grudge against him, my passion for the game has not been the same, and that is why after my high school career, I will not longer be playing softball.

It is upsetting. It sucks to know that you won't play the sport you used to love. I wish I knew how to bring back the passion. I wish playing the game wasn't so physically and mentally exhausting.

Softball has taught me so many lessons that I will forever be grateful for. When someone says you aren't good enough or can't play, prove them wrong. Do not let your hard work go to waste. After every bad game when I wanted to quit, I kept going. When an error on the field happens you need to shake it off and keep going. When you throw a change-up over the plate and it gets blasted over the fence, well just watch it go and know never to do that again. Softball taught me that I am a lot stronger than I thought I ever could be.

Unfortunately, when the passion disappears, and your body can no longer endure the pain, you know it's time to hang up the cleats. It is going through practice 6 days a week trying to breathe because your back is in so much pain. It is the 2 days a week at physical therapy trying to get some sort of comfort. It's the mental pain from the physical pain that just doesn't seem worth it anymore. I could not be the person I am today without the game of softball. Every game, bruise, tear, strikeout, etc, has shaped me into who I am today. It changed my life for the good and the bad and for that I am thankful.

To any girl who feels the same as I do:

Do not take anything for granted. Cherish every game you play. If it is a win or a loss be there for your teammates. Don't be bossy but be supportive. No matter how much time is left, put 100% of your effort into it because your teammates and coaches deserve it. Never take the game for granted.