In almost all levels of sport, it’s inevitable you’ll get moved at some point. Cut from one team, traded from another, graduation, and so on. In any case, it’s always a shock.
Watching the NHL trade deadline over the March break reminded me that such a devastating day for some, has turned into a television spectacle for all to see. Some networks dedicated 12-hour specials designed like game shows, while others had around-the-clock live blogging sites.
All the while, the players brewed a pot of coffee, dropped their children off at school, and grew grey waiting to see which state or country they would call home tomorrow.
Don’t get me wrong, I get it. It’s professional sport and there aren’t many downfalls to being a multi-millionaire.
Amateur sport present some of these same obstacles on a smaller scale.
Sometimes they’re unexpected, leaving you, no doubt, unprepared. Other times, you couldn’t be more prepared to move onto the next level, or search for greener pastures.
Ultimately, though, it makes for difficult times. Being moved from one city to the next presents a challenge.
One day you’re in a city that’s comfortable and familiar. Over time, you develop friendships and form fond memories. The city finds a place in your heart.
But because of your particular skill, another city is calling. Sport is a business that’s expanding and searching for progression and you’re just an investment searching for a home.
Harsh, but it’s reality.
A change in scenery or coaching style may shake up an athlete’s familiarity and force them to adapt. After being in one place for an extended period, you get comfortable. And sometimes, not all times, being comfortable is a dangerous thing.
Being an optimist, change is intriguing. Sure, the feeling of uncertainty gives me the jitters, but once that subsides, you’re in for an experience.
Moving around is expected for an athlete and like I’ve said from the beginning, it’s all a part of the ride. Meeting people, traveling to unfamiliar cities, and developing as a person is what sport is all about.
The day that I don’t expect my life to be flipped upside down is the day that I’ll want it to happen the most. The minute I’m content with my surroundings is the minute I want a shake up.
