>_< Volleyball (part 2)

So there I was as a college freshman, looking for new friends, new experiences, and basically a new life. Ther person I was in high school would soon grow into the player I am today. I walked into that gym and saw Justin, who had told me after a few exchanged words that he was a libero. So after peppering for a bit I just noticed he had really good hands. I told him "hey, you know you should be a setter" and from then on we've been "setter and hitter" ever since. It's been 5 years now and since then we've started and maintained a volleyball club team, of which I was Vice president for a year and Captain of the "better" team my last year in college, and we went on a 7-3 record, the best record to date. I've developed so much of my skills that I almost considered that my prime was around this time last year and now I'm kind of just plataeu-ing off. I want to get better and I'm sure I will in certain aspects, but that won't come until I start stepping up. I will. Make sure of it.

Now? I'm the head coach of the club that Justin and I ran. Its a bit awkward, and I want to play so bad, but I'm happy to pass the torch and let others experience the thrill I experienced. I'm going to continue coaching, if they'll allow me. But i'll also search for new players to teach and learn from. Just like my skills have been honed, so will my knowledge of the game. And it's a great feeling.

So why exactly do I love volleyball? A big part of it is a stress reliever. Nothing is more uplifting than cranking a ball straight down or into some poor victims chest or face. It's a very mind oriented game in terms of frustration and anger. With other sports you could probably just get in the other guys face and start throwing punches. In volleyball, no matter how angry you get, there will always be that net in the way and its up to you to prove that you are better than the ones that anger you. It's exhilarating. The team aspect is also a favorite quality. You can't play volleyball by yourself. Try it, its a terrible experience. So whether with friends or strangers, theres always somebondy to talk to and you've already got that one thing in common... volleyball. I could go on and on about how much this sport means to me. The game has caused be some really good, intense pain. Bent fingers, torn shoulders, weak knees, tight abs, and the strongest thighs I've ever had the pleasure to flex. Without it, I'd be more than 50 pounds overweight. Its the only thing that I'll allow to mess up my schedule. Hot date? Sure let's have one. Volleyball tourney the same day? Date is rain checked. No questions asked. It takes a lot of priority. People know that about me. Becasue of who I am, I need something like this to free myself from other things going on in my life. It's a remarkable feeling.

I'm sure many of you have a certain feeling about a sport this way. This passion I have runs really deep. If my knees haven't given in by then, I'll probably still be playing when I'm 50. 60 even. Of course I won't be as good, but I'll be wise and I'll know how to play with my mind instead of my biceps.

In conclusion: Volleyball is mine. You have yours. Mine is better though.

ta ta kids