Basketball

Growing up I didn't know how Basketball could have such a big impact on my life. It all started in Grade 4 when I was watching my siblings basketball practices. It was then, the legendary Mr. Marquardson. He told me, "do you have gym clothes?" I said, "Yes". Then he said "well get changed, you're not getting any better sitting there". That right there stuck with me for the rest of my life. That does not only apply to basketball, but in life too. Why wait around when you can try something new, or just be productive with your time. I remember changing to my gym clothes and freaking out like how the hell am I going to join in I have no clue what the heck I am doing. I remember watching my sisters friends who were in Grade 7 at the time, trying to understand what to do. So I didn't think it was so bad. Ever since that day, my life was dedicated to the game. Basketball was my first and favourite sport. Crazy how 10 years later and here I am behind a computer screen expressing my love for it instead of playing it. But obviously as time goes by life changes, and some things you just cant pursue anymore. At least, at the moment. From that day on, I played 10 years of continuous basketball whether it was school, club basketball, provincial basketball and college basketball. It's what my life consisted of and honestly I would do it over again if I could. I think my biggest regret is not performing the way I could have. Before I was scared to drive in because I couldn't stand the embarrassment of being blocked. But as I grew older, I realized it's part of the game and I cant be scared anymore. Unfortunately for me, I learned that when my basketball career was over. I had different ways of dealing with the stress I had that I wasn't able to show others what I was capable of. I would go to the outdoor courts and try to get reps in, or even go to the local gym and play against guys. I knew that if I wasn't scared to face them then I knew I would be able to go on the court with no fear. Playing at the local gyms with familiar faces was intense because at first they wouldn't take me seriously because I was a female. But I would always tell them to just play. Some would listen, some wouldn't. Obviously, for those who didn't, I had to teach them a lesson and have them crossed up, or scored on. It was a great feeling. It makes me miss the big games, like provincials where the bleachers were filled top to bottom and all eyes and pressure was on the teams on the court. Best feeling ever I tell you. If you're someone who is reading this and enjoys something -anything from sports to your favourite hobbies. Enjoy every second of your life, especially those things that make you happy because you never know when life could take a turn and you have to sacrifice the things you love, in order to live.