After months of hard work, I received clearance to play at the start of my sophomore season. My injury resurfaced just a week into workouts, putting me on the shelf again. My frustration mounted because it seemed like all the hard work, physical therapy and time in the training room were for nothing. I reluctantly began the rehabilitation process again, spending every day in the training room, but nothing seemed to work. I went home to my primary orthopedic, and he told me that it was reasonable for me and my future to stop playing because it could (and was) causing more damage than initially expected.
Coach Olson and I talked about the different possibilities that could work. She still wanted me to be a part of the D&E softball program, even though I couldn’t be a player on the field. I was heartbroken that I couldn’t play anymore; I was worried what the transition would be like from being a student-athlete to not playing at all, just watching and doing things for my teammates. Watching everyone on the field, getting to practice was something that was very hard. It took a lot, mentally, to pull through. Many nights of tears, frustration and just not knowing.
However, I am confident that staying a part of D&E softball is what was best for me. This group and coaching staff have done so much for me, showing me many different things, teaching me many life lessons and showing so much appreciation. Honestly, I don’t know what I would do without Coach Olson and my teammates, who have also shown that just because I can’t play, it doesn’t mean that I’m less important. I don’t know how I would have gotten through being told I couldn’t play again without them. Many things have come from this team, one of my best friends, fun trips, memories that will last me a lifetime, people that I know I can count on, and another family. I’m blessed that I was allowed to stay apart of the program. D&E softball is something I will cherish forever!
