Why they love the sport: Student athletes share their reasons for playing

Seiji Wood

Sports Editor

Colton_Belnap“Football is the greatest game in the world. It’s a sport that can unite a group of guys from all over the nation and motivate them achieve greatness together. Football has always been a huge part of my life, and I’ve always loved lacing up the cleats and throwing on the pads. I love football so much because it’s a lot like life. It has taught me that no matter how many times you get knocked down, you can always decide to get back up and give it your best. Life hits hard, harder than football, but you can still decide to rise up and give it your best shot. Eventually, you get really good at trying your very best, and that’s when extraordinary things happen, both in football and in life.”

– Colton Belnap, Football

 

 

Mahala Bradburn“I love volleyball because it is an escape for me. No matter what is going on in my life, it all disappears when I step on the volleyball court. My teammates surround me, and it is an environment where I can be myself and grow.”

Mahala Bradburn, Volleyball

 

 

 

 

Taylor Meeks“There are many reasons as to why I love volleyball. Volleyball has given me so much in life. It has given me a second family that I will have for the rest of my life. The friendships I’ve built with my teammates are invaluable and each one of them has taught me so much and has helped me to be who I am today. Volleyball is also an escape from the outside world. When I’m playing, my problems, worries, everything just melts away and it helps me refocus. By being on various volleyball teams for most of my life, each one different and unique, I’ve learned so many life lessons and valuable knowledge that I can and have applied to my life. I’ve learned selflessness, dedication, commitment, hard work, pushing my limits, toughness and many more things. Volleyball has given me a lot of things, so it means everything to me.”

– Taylor Meeks, Volleyball

 

Andrea Wood“Tennis is a sport where it challenges me both physically and mentally. The feeling of winning a match is irreplaceable and always keeps me coming back for more. I love the friendships I’ve made, whether it’s my teammates or my opponents. The competition and endless strategies will keep me playing the sport for as long as I can.”

– Andrea Wood, Tennis

 

 

 

 

Alex Espinoza“I love football not so much because of the game itself, but because of what it’s taught me and the impact the difference it’s made in my life. I would not be where I am right now and would not be the person I am without the game of football. It is the game of football that has taught me with hard work, dedication and determination you can accomplish anything. This game teaches you that sometimes you will make a mistake or get knocked down, but you must get back up and continue to move forward, as you must do in life. Apart from the life lessons, it is the relationships and opportunities that make this game so great. You meet some of your closest friends, while also being able to play for your family and friends. I couldn’t be more grateful for the game of football and the impact it has had on my life!”

– Alex Espinoza, Football