3 years of training leading up to AAU nationals was taken
away in 20 seconds. The ball was set: high, but tight to the net. I started my
approach. Little right, bigger left, biggest right, step together, jump…POP.
3 years prior to this moment I was asked to go to AAU nationals with the
18s club team as a 15 year old. I trembled as I stared at the giants
across the net. My 5’6” average self had never felt so small. I was terrified.
I suffered through the most mentally, and physically taxing week of my life,
but I was excited because I knew in 3 years I would get to lead my team to this
tournament.
I lay on ground paralyzed with fear; my goal to lead my team
to nationals was in jeopardy. The doctor confirmed—I had torn my ACL. This was my
worst nightmare because I never let an injury keep me off the court. How could
I possibly be a leader from the sidelines? I immediately called my coach. Balling,
I choked out the words, I am sorry for letting you and the team down. He told
me, I can still lead, but that doesn’t mean it has to be on the court. I didn’t
want to believe him, until now.
I am permanently benched, but as a coach. When I signed on
for coaching, I had a mother come up to me and say, “I don’t know what you tell
my daughter, but you are really helping.” What that mother doesn’t know is her
statement combined with my coach’s advice changed my life. I am a still a
leader, but as a role model. I have girls that look up to me, and it is my job
to make them better volleyball players and individuals.
Motivation doesn't always come from the court. (subject to change)
(WC: 300)
