Fitness is composed of many elements: agility, body mass index, coordination, stamina, respiratory efficiency and balance are all prominent measures of fitness. But there is more to athleticism than just physicality.
While there are many different physical components of being an athlete, no matter the sport, the mental aspect of it also plays a significant role in the mindset of the athletes.
“I think the most challenging process is the mental part and just getting the confidence to try new skills,” JV Charger Cheer Captain, Sophia Decola said. “And I think I just remind myself that if it goes bad or if it goes good, it doesn’t change anything and I can just like try again.”
Staying motivated is difficult, but Champion’s athletes understand that it’s vital to maintain the passion and drive for their designated sport in order to do their best.
Sophomore varsity Water Polo player Charles Belson finds his motivation builds from his teammates’ desire to win and the realization that he needs to “level myself up to improve the entire team.”
Motivation is something that is a sport on its own, and just like any sport, it needs a coach.
“When it comes to hardships in athletics, I believe it is important to put things in perspective for the kids,” football and girls soccer coach, Roberto Garibay said. “Some of the best lessons learned in life will come when dealing with hardships or defeat.”
Defeat is the main opponent of motivation. Winning against it takes persistence, acceptance, and a plan of redemption.
“It is crucial to reflect on what didn’t go well, acknowledge it, and come up with a plan of action or adjustment to improve on the mistake made so it doesn’t happen again; tough times don’t last, but tough people do,” Garibay said.
