Duke Field Hockey Camp Round Two: Learning To Play Up

For my second year in a row I attended the Duke University field hockey camp in Durham, North Carolina. Although the drills and activities were very similar as the year prior, I felt that this year I had changed drastically. Whether it was the fact that I am finally in high school or that I had a

year to improve, I felt much more confident on the field amongst varsity girls on their way to D1 schools.

Last year as an eighth grader, I was extremely intimidated by the older girls that I played with. They had skills which I believed I would never have the capability to utilize. I didn’t feel comfortable playing with or against them because I was so worried that I would either miss a pass or shot resulting in major embarrassment. I had difficulty in games because my fear lead me to communicate very little to my teammates which was a poor decision for a successful team speaks through their playing. I assumed our age and skill difference entailed an inevitable silence from me, which I later discovered was totally FALSE!

This year, I showed up to my first practice full of confidence and excitement. I had very few worries about bigger and better players. When I met my team I of course had initial feelings about the girls, but I tried by absolute best so refuse preconceived judgement because I had learned that it would only freak me out and distract me from playing.

When we began playing our games, I quickly noticed that the majority of my team had been completely committed to field hockey for quite some time, meaning they were very talented. It was so difficult not to fear them and their outstanding skills, but once I got to know them off the field, I took the opportunity as a time to learn and improve. I came to the realization that playing with girls at a higher level would help me become a stronger player. I was able to find my silver lining to playing with girls already committed to D1 schools as rising juniors.

This year since I was able to let go of being a player "less than others" I had even more fun than the pervious year. I fully immersed myself in the drills and pushed my limits during the games. I was able to confidently ask the older girls for tips and tricks to improve and of course they were so sweet and aided me greatly.

This year’s experience has taught me not only many great skills which I can’t wait to use on the field when the season starts, but that intimidation is fully created by yourself and it’s your choice whether you will let it stop you from growing and improving.