First Day of Practice – 2011
By Sara Olson (Senior from Orland Park, Ill.)
Today we were very excited, as it was our first 2011 team practice!! We have all been anxiously looking forward to getting this season going! Today’s practice was typical, working out the kinks as everyone was getting back into the groove of things. It was full of motivation, energy and we all were happy to see each other working together after our long break. I am ecstatic about my teammate’s energy and think we are definitely going to be a team to be reckoned with!
Earlier in the day, before practice I took a few minutes to reflect on my past three years here at IU and how this will be my last first practice of my IU softball career. Sounds kind of silly, but ever since my freshman year I can remember all the seniors saying all the same things that I am thinking now. Reminiscing about my past years here, so many great memories came to my mind. I can remember my older sister, Anna, talking about how she was a senior and can picture myself, three years ago today, as a little freshman playing catch with her in Mellencamp and the anxiousness I felt to get the season going. And now I am a senior, and I can’t believe it! The anxiousness I felt as a freshman is now a feeling of readiness as a senior. Every season, every year of my college career has gone by faster and faster… and in the blink of an eye, this year’s season will be over too. I have learned over the years to never take one day for granted, for it is a blessing. Everyday I pick up my glove and go play catch is a day I know I am living my dream.
My past three years have been full of wonderful experiences and life lessons, but I hope to make this year the best! It has been an honor and a privilege to be a part of this program. I will wear my Indiana Softball jersey #7 for one more season with great pride; for I know that next year it will be in good hands with my little sister Lora, and it will be her turn to wear it with pride and to represent the Cream and Crimson. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow’s practice brings along with the rest of the year!
Go Hoosiers!
