A Note To The Volleyball Player I Used To Be

I'd like to first start this out by letting you know I miss you. I miss you a whole lot. You were one of the biggest parts of who I was and still am today. Its been so long that sometimes I miss the soreness that makes my legs ache and the red burns that sting as soon as I take a shower. I miss sacrificing my body for the ball and running towards it even if I knew it was out of my reach. It sucks because I remember you like it was yesterday. It was a time where you were everything that I ever thought about. Without it I feel like a part of me is missing.

I remember the first time I picked up a volleyball. I was watching my sister play and she let me mess around with her while see practiced. I was so young, but I was so intrigued. I wanted to learn everything the sport had to offer. I never let you go after that. I continued to play and play till I got good enough to try out for a real team. 

I remember the joy of winning a match that you fought for with your blood, sweat, and tears. A game that you know you deserved. You are so out of breath but you can hear the screaming and cheering erupting from everyone. The glory is shining in your eyes and you're so proud. But I also remember being on the other side of the net disappointed with yourself and thinking of all the ways you could've changed the score. 

I remember day where I didn't want to go to practice because I was scared of coach making us run. Now that I look back I wished I wouldn't have missed a single practice because the practices that challenged us and made us work hard were the most valuable. They taught us to never give up and team work is the only way to win. I remember the practices were if a single ball dropped we would have to do 10 burpees or if we didn't communicate we had to run. Those practices were the ones that taught me that you also have to work hard to get better. You can have talent, but it means nothing if you don't put in the effort. 

I remember the tournaments that we had to be there so early you felt like a zombie our first game, but the second the whistle blew you were wide awake. The days after the tournament when you forget to wash your knee pads and you open your gym bag and you almost pass out. It may smell bad, but it's the smell of hard work. Everyone knew it when you didn't wash your knee pads or if you didn't wear ankle braces you were the odd ball. 

I miss the people I met throughout my time growing and learning. Without the people the experience would not be as rewarding. There is no win without the teammates out on the court. The ones you yell and scream "mine" to and the ones you cheer and high five with. The friendships you have given me are something I am forever grateful for.

I miss the feeling of putting on my uniform, sporting a number that I was proud to hear called on the lineup. The feeling of pride washes over you as you step out showing who you are and why you are there. It's one of the best feelings in the world. 

The thing is volleyball, you have taught me everything. You have taught me about perseverance and teamwork. You have taught me who I am and who I was supposed to be. If I had the opportunity to go back I would never miss a practice even if I was worn out or sick. I would give my all because one day it won't be that easy to get on the court again. These are the times I would relive again. 

If I could relive any moment it would be the moment when you step out onto the court into your position and it is completely silent. You are waiting for the first whistle to blow and the game to begin. It is one the best moments in the entire game. The determination in your eyes and the fire igniting in your soul. You are ready to win. 

Volleyball, you gave me everything I could've asked for. A leader that taught me all I know, friends that are forever, and memories that I could never forget even if I wanted to. I miss you every single day of my life volleyball. My greatest wish is that we meet again and I see the same determination in your eyes. But for now, thank you. I hope you continue to give others the same feeling and the same happiness you gave me for so many years. 

Love, 

Osburn #13