Cross Creek Blogs

Coach Eddie has really assisted me a lot when it comes to life.  When I think about what I do in track; how I act and respond is a reflection of my life.  If I do poorly and just give up, or if my intentions are not pure and I barely put in any effort, I will fail.  However, if I do track with a purpose and passion really striving for excellence, I will meet a new goal each time.  It is just like life.

            I have talked to Coach Eddie at times when I have been struggling.  One thing that Coach Eddie has taught me is to give others a chance.  There was one point during the season when I had control come up and I was getting frustrated because it was clear who really put forth effort into track and who didn’t.  I felt that we were wasting our time helping those people who were not trying hard enough.  After talking to my coach I learned to understand that everyone deserves a chance, whether it be in track, the program or life in general. 

            When I put this lesson in perspective of what it would be like if Mr. Eddie didn’t help me, or if my therapist only helped girls who were doing really well, then those who were struggling would not get helped at all.  I think this is a huge part of Cross Creek where we get a second chance, or third or fourth.  No one gave up on me, so I have to remember where I came from.  I am not best at my event and I still have a lot of work to do.

            Another big thing I learned from Coach Eddie and our entire team is that I am 100% capable of having a lot of fun while being clean.  Some of my best and funniest memories are at track.  My nick name was “pig pen” because after every practice I would be covered with dirt, usually from the shot put.  I laughed a lot and realized how much fun I can have just by being myself.

            I have had a lot of discussions with Coach Eddie about my mindset, which is a huge factor in both track and life.  Having a negative mindset, bringing my issues and crap into the ring (shot put) and being “out of the zone” are all things that hold me back from throwing far.  Just like in life, our mindset is the basis of our actions.  If our mindset is negative and impure so are our actions.

            I also learned that it doesn’t matter if I place last or throw not so hot, as long as I do my best.  I went to Region Track and Field Meet and my hard work paid off.  I qualified for State and came in fourth place.  At State I didn’t do so well and placed 14^th.  I did my best and I beat my personal record.  I threw 26’ and 4 ¾ “.  It was awesome that I made it to state after my first time ever doing this!

            I have really learned a lot this season and I am grateful for this opportunity.  Track is something that I would have never done at home and now I want to keep working at it.  I have a new passion for track and field, and it has helped a lot in my program in adjusting to life outside the walls of Cross Creek.

Posted on May 22nd, 2008 by admin
Filed under: STUDENTS, Uncategorized