Playing sports isn’t just about staying fit and having fun; when you’re part of a team, you learn how to work together, communicate, and support each other—skills that are useful in all parts of life. I recently played in a casual, adult softball league and this month we will start kickball. Since my parents didn’t put me in sports growing up, I can’t help but wish that they did. Seeing the skills and values that sports instill in people, I realize how much it could have helped me grow earlier in life. Balancing practice, games, and everything else teaches discipline, time management, prioritization and organization. Whether it’s managing a schedule, tackling tasks, or balancing work and fun, those time management skills are gold. Since I didn’t play sports I put my energy into music, art, and other creative projects but since most of those are individual activities, I feel like I missed out on being part of a team. Whether you’re leading or supporting a team, you learn to take initiative, motivate others, and make smart decisions. These experiences build confidence and the ability to guide others, which is great whether at work, with family, or in the community. Although I was able to find “teams” in other groups and activities, there is something about the ups and downs of competing that could have been useful for me before graduating college. The discipline, teamwork, resilience, leadership, and community you get from sports are so valuable and can be transferred into all aspects of your life. How have sports helped you in your personal journey? Share your story with us!
– Kaylyn
Did you know The America’s Cup holds the prestigious title of being the oldest international competition in any sport, with a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. I didn’t, but here I am living in Barcelona, supporting my husband’s dream! The inaugural race was won by the schooner America, representing the New York Yacht Club, and is what led to the trophy being renamed the “America’s Cup” in honor of the winning vessel. Over the years, Cup has become synonymous with cutting-edge technology and innovation in sailing, attracting the best talent from around the world. But I’ve learned that the Cup is bigger than the talent. It’s this interconnected village that supports each other as families move sometimes multiple times in a year to a new place. It’s a restart on your life, over and over again. Navigating this move wasn’t as easy as I had initially hoped, but I’ve learned to not sweat the small stuff. And have found myself surrounded by such amazing women, many in a similar stage of life as myself. We have an innate understanding of each other, as many of us have children, husbands who are working 12 hour days, 6 days a week. We support each other, celebrate our children’s birthdays together, and celebrate each other. This chapter in my life has been filled with some of the hardest moments I’ve ever had. I’ve shed many tears, had many laughs, but most importantly I’ve grown as a Mother, wife, and friend. But also as just Jessica. I’m so grateful to this sport, and to the Cup for this experience. The Louis Vuitton Cup starts on 8/29, with the final starting 10/12. I hope you will join me in cheering on our team American Magic as we try to win one of the oldest trophy’s in history. See you soon!!
– Jessica
Sports were a big part of my childhood and upbringing. I dabbled in golf and tennis at an early age (and still play some to this day) but growing up I gravitated toward team sports…soccer being my favorite early on. I was lucky to have a big brother (Jason) who took the time to train/play/practice with me; he helped me a lot. In soccer, I soon became the best goal-scorer on the team. I made club, went to state championships, and cried at state championships after losing 0-1. I played for another season or two, but the flame went out and I switched sports to roller hockey. Back then it was new, cool and a much faster pace. I enjoyed it. To this day, I still play hockey, but now the “real” one: the one played on ice. I enjoy the pace and the team flow. It’s an exciting sport and safer than most at my age (pads, helmet, and “no checking” rules help). Now that I have a 3-year-old, I’m getting excited to see his path and hope he enjoys sports as much as I do. Disclaimer: I will not pressure him and understand his strengths and needs might be different from mine. BUT, If I have it my way, I would love it if he ended up wanting to golf solo with his dad, hit the tennis ball around once in a while, and then be part of a team in the sport of his choosing (preferably soccer or hockey, haha). He is an only child and being part of a team can do so much for him. The positives of making friends, developing teamwork skills, improving discipline and dedication helped me and can see it helping him as well. Even the negatives of dealing with difficult personalities, the disappointments of losing, and the pressure to perform can all be valuable lifelong lessons. All aspects can help someone become a well-balanced individual.
– Travis