Keep Playing

Playing your last game is one of the most difficult experiences as an athlete. For most of us who never had the ability to play at the next level, whether that's college, professionally, or whatever comes next, that last time playing creates a void that feels like it may never be filled.

Don't get me wrong, there were plenty of times when I, and I'm sure many of you, wanted to skip a practice or a game. There were definitely times I got angry because my coaches were making me run for what seemed like absolutely no reason.

But the moment it's gone, you miss it more than anything.

It's hard to just move on from something you devoted so much of your life to. Weekly practices since you were little. Teammates you've known for years. Weekends spent traveling for games. Even all the time and money your parents committed to making sure you could play.

It's sad, and there's really no other way to put it.

But what if it didn't have to be your last game?

If you find yourself in this situation, I have one simple piece of advice:

Keep playing.

I'm not saying it will be the same as it was. It probably won't be. But remember the reason you started playing in the first place. Before the tournaments, coaches, trophies, tryouts, and everything else, you played because it was fun.

Maybe joining an adult league makes you nervous. Maybe you don't think you have enough time between work, school, or whatever else you have going on.

Make the time because it will be worth it.

Get some old teammates together. Join an intramural team if you’re at college. Sign up for an adult league at the YMCA or whatever you have in your city. Find a pickup game. It doesn't really matter where or how competitive it is.

You don't have to be working toward a scholarship, championship, or professional career to justify playing a sport.

Sometimes, enjoying the game is reason enough.