Dropping out of sport? Make sure it’s for the right reasons. I don’t believe athletes ever really “drop out” of sports. They may put them on pause, because other life events and interests have taken priority, but an athlete is an athlete. If you’ve played competitive or even recreational sports, the richness they add to your life cannot be disputed. Reflect on your past experiences and be grateful for what you learned, the friendships you made, and how they changed you as a person. I guarantee you are a more friendly, confident, and open person due to the diverse experiences you had through sport. So, if you’re dropping out of sport for the next year so that you can study to get an academic scholarship, or are interested in developing a new skill, that’s ok! I just hope that you never feel like you can’t reconnect with this part of your life. Once an athlete, always an athlete 😉
What advice do you have for parents, coaches or sport administrators to encourage or improve sport for females?
Parents: Encourage your daughter, as I’m sure you do, and remember that the skills learned through sport are just as important as the skills learned at school – if not more so. Let your daughter be the girl she wants to be – not having to abide by any stereotypical norms or expectations. Push her to be her best and help her be confident in her abilities.
Coaches: Your commitment to your team doesn’t go unnoticed – by parents and players alike. Being conscious of emotions, communication styles, and where the line falls for pushing each of your players is a critical skill. Try to foster a sense of camaraderie, belonging and support among your teams, in addition to the other pillars of hard work and excellence. This will help women who are apprehensive of starting sports, as well as keep women who are already playing engaged and committed.
For competitive players, their team is often the heart of their social circle, and you as a coach are one of the few people they look up to and trust. Don’t abuse the position.
Sport administration: Give a fair budget to your women’s team and the men’s team, not just the latter.
What is a song that motivates you?
So typical but I always loved “Remember the Name” and “Lose Yourself”. I still love them.
What do you say to motivate yourself?
I usually just say “what’s the worst that can happen?” and I go through the list and realize it’s really not all that bad! Not sure if this works for everyone though LOL. Or I just tell myself “I got this” 20x in a row, and highlight all the things I’m good at and that I know. This works equally well for sports and school/work.
What is a quote that motivates you?
There are so many it’s hard to choose. Honestly one is “Nobody’s looking out for you but you”, which is kind of a somber one, but nothing lights a fire under my bottom to get something done or be better like that one! Also “if your dreams don’t scare, you’re not thinking big enough.”
