By Chandler Brandes, Swimming World College Intern
It seems like move-in day was just yesterday, and I can’t believe how fast this past year has gone by.
They say time flies when you’re having fun. That couldn’t be more true, especially when you have an awesome team by your side each and every day.
Although 5 a.m. alarms and extremely hard practices aren’t necessarily fun, the time I’ve spent in and out of the pool with my team and the memories we’ve created will last a lifetime.
My team are the people I spend the majority of my time with, and we’ve become one big family since August. And until this upcoming August comes around again, I’m really going to miss my team.
Here are four of the many reasons you’ll also miss your team this summer:
1. Motivation.
Photo Courtesy: Michael-David Morales
It’s much easier to wake up and go to practice when you have your teammates by your side, and it can be hard to find motivation when you’re on your own. Set summer goals for yourself, and remember that the work you put in over the next few months will help you during the next season.
2. You can tell them anything.
Photo Courtesy: Arizona Republic-USA TODAY Sports
Your team just gets it. No one else understands you better than your team, and your teammates are the best people to vent to about anything. Although you won’t see them every day and they won’t be a few doors down the hall, luckily they’re only one text or call away.
3. Meals.
Photo Courtesy: Linda Nylind
No one eats like a swimmer does. Sometimes the mere thought of food is the only thing that gets us through practice, and some of the best memories are from team dinners. Eating plates and plates of food alone after practice won’t be the same without your teammates by your side.
4. They’re family.
Photo Courtesy: Vermont Athletics
It’s nice going home to your real family, old friends, and club team, but nothing compares to the bond formed with your team. They’ve stuck by you at you at your worst and have celebrated all of your successes with you. No matter where you go, your family will never leave, and you’ll be reunited in a few short months.
Before you know it, you’ll be back in the pool with your team, ready to take on next season.