When I was seventeen years old, I underwent back surgery to repair two pars fractures in my lower lumbar 5. My surgeon inserted two screws in my back. One fracture was several months old and required artificial bone marrow. My doctor was unsure whether I would ever bounce back 100%. I eventually competed again, but it took me a lot longer to recover than expected. I competed in the fall cross-country season six months after my surgery, but I didn’t feel 100% until a year later.
The injury definitely rocked my world and required me to change my lifestyle. I couldn’t rely solely on my natural talent to carry me through sports. I had to implement healthy practices like good nutrition, strength training, and stretching. My eating took a complete 180. In high school, I used to be what my friends called, a “garbage gut.” I often went up for seconds at lunchtime and cleaned my friends’ plates when they offered. Fortunately, my high caloric intake hasn’t caught up with me, but my poor nutrition and lack of strength and conditioning did. It translated over into my sports career. I would feel tired and sluggish during some sporting events. Bryanna adds that I still eat a massive amount of calories and still know how to clear everyone’s plate.
My poor habits and injured body were a recipe for disaster during my college basketball career. I developed several illnesses and blew my ACL my sophomore year and then tore ligaments in my neck my junior year. I eventually switched over to track and cross-country, a sport that generated less stress on my body. I finished my final redshirt year at Pepperdine University where I studied law, but I did not come close to reaching my potential. I had to limit my training significantly and devote most of my time to law school.
Some people would say I am a washed-up athlete, but I would consider myself a redeemed athlete. I am on the road to redemption. My story may not be the classic “overcomer” story and I may not end up on top, but that doesn’t make my story less of an impact. I didn’t give up and I am still competing. That is something worth celebrating.
With my sister’s help, I have learned the importance of proper training with cross training and nutrition.
Next time I will discuss what changes I have made to become a stronger and healthier athlete.
Until Next Time Be Whole and Be Fit