Being a student athlete has lead me to being a well-rounded person. During the summer break, I play summer leagues and being an athlete during those times has taught me how to have more self-confidence, work well under pressure, and to fight through mental and physical challenges.

Being an athlete has taught me to have some self-confidence. Athletes have to play as a part of team and not all on their own. Their teammates have to be able to trust them to do their job. In order for someone to trust them, they have to believe in their self to do what is needed. Athletes can’t freeze up or not know what they’re doing.  The team depends on them to do their part and, know what to do in any situation therefore; they have to push themselves to believe in their capabilities. If they do not do their job, then not only are they letting the team down, but they are also letting themselves down. As an athlete, they have to believe in what they are doing or there is no use in playing the game at all. If you do not have the confidence in yourself to win then, why play the game?

Athletes must make quick, smart, and confident decisions. There is no room for hesitation or second guessing. I have learned to trust my instincts and work well under pressure. Instead of getting nervous and questioning if my next move will be fatal or beneficial, I have to follow my instincts. During a game when the team gets pressured, if an athlete makes a bad pass or gets nervous it could give the other team a significant lead. It is important to make sure where their teammates are and the options they have and, not getting sucked up into the pressure. Sure plenty of games are fast paced and very intense but, an athlete can never let that affect how they play. Thinking through possibilities and, being able to execute them quickly is a must in many sports and life.

Being an athlete has also taught me to fight through mental and physical challenges. If I get elbowed or thrown on the floor, I have to ignore the pain and get ready for whatever is coming next. Not only physically do I have to be prepared but, mentally as well. When an athlete has a bad day, it does not mean they can go onto to the court and play like they do not know the game. They have to store away their emotions for another time and, play to the best of their ability. They must put the team before them and, ignore the fighting or stress they have on them.

An athlete has to be strong, determined and thoughtful. All these characteristics helps an athlete go to practice every day even if school was bad, and play their game to the best of their ability even if they get tossed around. Athletes are created through hard work, and I am able to say proudly that I have changed for the better because I am an athlete.