Rhonda Rhimes

Back in my day (also known as six months ago), I was a part of the Varsity Lady Lions basketball team at my high school. I was given the title of captain and my whole world became all about basketball. I always loved this sport as a kid but what I loved even more than the physical aspects of basketball was the positive culture that came with it. The entire experience gave me a sense of belonging and unity with my teammates that will forever mean so much to me.

During my time as a basketball player and captain, I learned to put others before myself, speak up for my concerns and those of my teammates, and also to run tons of laps after my many missed shots (I was more of a defensive player for sure). The sport made me tough physically but also led me to be more outspoken. Due to my reserved/shy nature, I had never been the person to voice my opinion or speak confidently about anything, but basketball gave me a space to do so and for that, I am so grateful. Even though I loved it in the end, that wasn’t always the case. There were days when being a student athlete was no fun, like when our head coach would be disappointed in us or when I didn’t play the way I intended to, but these hardships always made the comebacks that much more invigorating. I am glad I never gave up, basketball and the culture surrounding this sport made me a better me.

When I joined the team I only thought I would make a couple friends, receive some free gear, and get out of a couple classes early but it ended up meaning so much more to me than these trivial benefits. When I play now, I am reminded of my “glory days” and I hope to experience so much more joy through this sport here, at the University of Georgia.