An introduction
Hi, my name is Emily and I am a retired softball player.
If you have ever played competitive sports, you most likely have made sacrifices and put 100% of your efforts into the sport. Your focus is on finding a class schedule that works best for your sport in college. If you played professionally, your whole focus is to be in the best shape possible and your job is your lifestyle. Unfortunately, the competing days for everyone eventually comes to an end. There is going to be a day when the lights go out and you have to move on to what’s next.
I wanted to start this website because I have been having a hard time with no longer being associated with the sport I was in since I was 4 years old. I know that I am not the only one that has ever felt this way. I read a hand written post by someone I played against a few times about her worth and I related. She talked about how people know you as the girl who flings the ball from the circle, but does anyone know the real you? I felt like I was defined by softball for 21 years and now that is no longer such a large part of my life. I was one of the very lucky few to make it to the end of my playing career without an injury or any reason for it to end early or take breaks, yet I still feel this way. A lot of people talk about how to get back into shape after ending sports, but I never really see anyone talking about how they’re doing. If you are struggling with the end of a sport - you are not alone. If you are still able to compete, use this as a resource to help prepare for when you are done because the day comes for every athlete. Here are some resources that are currently helping me find new hobbies and find new things to do:
Erin Condren Self Care Journal - this helps me with keeping on track with good habits, monitoring my moods, and staying positive.
The Motivation App - this app is $20 per year and it gives you motivational quotes as often as you tell it to. I have it as a widget on my Home Screen on my phone so I see it daily and I get notifications randomly throughout the day. It actually is helpful.
Babbel - learning another language is fun and adds to your knowledge. This will help you focus on something new and challenging that is also an investment in yourself.
Too often, I hear about people doing a random degree during college because they never really thought about what they want to do for a career then they end up taking out major loans to go back to school. If you were a student-athlete in college, you know it is very difficult to major in anything challenging while competing in a sport. This is very important for anyone who competes or used to because once you’re an athlete, always an athlete. I plan on interviewing people and posting them for relatable content.
PS: I am very lucky and can call my parents just to chat at any time. I also have a few best friends that I can call or text at any time. If you do not have people to talk to, PLEASE reach out to me in the contact page and let’s talk. I want to be there for you.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please call the Suicide Hotline. It’s toll free and available 24/7 at 800-273-8255.
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