Discovering Passion Through Sport: A Journey from Player to Mentor
Fitness is a journey filled with lessons, perseverance, and moments that shape our identities. For many, it starts with a sport that ignites a passion. In this article, I’ll share my personal journey through fitness and volleyball, emphasizing the importance of dedication, hard work, and the support that can lead to growth—not just as an athlete, but as an individual.
The Early Days of Discovery
From an early age, I was immersed in sports. I dabbled in various activities like basketball, baseball, gymnastics, and soccer. Each sport filled my evenings with competition and camaraderie, but I didn’t truly find my calling until I discovered volleyball at the age of ten.
From the moment I stepped onto the court, I felt an innate connection to the game. It offered me confidence while simultaneously showing me the vast potential for improvement. This unique blend sparked a fire in me, transforming volleyball from a mere pastime into a driving passion. As early as middle school, I sought every opportunity to enhance my skills—practicing relentlessly, eager for more touches and repetitions.
Overcoming Barriers
I first joined a club volleyball team during my junior year of high school. Initially, I felt behind many of my peers who had years of experience and financial backing. However, I chose to transform that feeling of inadequacy into motivation. I turned my home into a training space, practicing whenever I could, even to my parents’ annoyance. Recognizing my dedication, my father constructed a portable volleyball court for me, allowing me to take my training to local parks. Additionally, he connected me with a coach for structured guidance, reinforcing my commitment.
When I joined Oak Park High School, I played both indoor and beach volleyball. Making the varsity team as a sophomore validated the years of hard work I had put in. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, it disrupted everything. Seasons were canceled, much to our disappointment, but my training regimen did not relent. Instead, it intensified.
A Shift in Focus: Embracing Fitness
During the pandemic, I discovered a love for fitness that complemented my passion for volleyball. I became known as the “gym girl”—rising before dawn for workouts, juggling school, practices, and additional training sessions at night. This disciplined approach was fueled by a clear purpose: I aimed to build a stronger version of myself in preparation for when we could hit the courts again.
As I transitioned to college, my work ethic carried me through. Playing for Pierce College for two years, I evolved into a team captain—a role that arose naturally from consistent effort and dedication, even when no one was watching.
Full Circle: Empowering Others
Now, as I pursue a kinesiology degree specializing in exercise science at California State University, Long Beach, I see my journey coming full circle. My initial love for sport has expanded into a passion for understanding the human body and empowering others to reach their potential. At Woodlake Gym, I am committed to providing young athletes with the opportunities I once sought. I aim to help them discover their passions, embrace hard work, and remind them that setbacks do not define their journey.
Conclusion: The Journey Continues
Volleyball was not merely a sport for me; it served as a foundation for personal growth, resilience, and purpose. Today, I cherish the lessons learned and the bonds forged through my experiences. Fitness is an ongoing journey, one that is continuously evolving. I look forward to sharing what I’ve learned and helping others navigate their own paths in the world of sports and fitness. Remember, your dedication today shapes the athlete—and the person—you will become tomorrow.
Whether you’re starting your fitness journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, keep pushing boundaries and finding joy in every moment. The path may not always be easy, but it is undeniably rewarding.
