I am about to turn 23 and am still playing college softball. Two freshmen on my team are not even adults yet. As I, and many other athletes who either redshirted or took advantage of their pandemic-induced extra year of eligibility, embark on our final season of play, this age difference is impossible to ignore. 

In order to bridge the gap, I wanted to write a letter. So, without further ado, to my newest and youngest teammates, this is for you:

Dear Freshmen,

You finally made it. No more recruiting emails, travel tournaments or SAT prep. You are a college athlete. And if you’re anything like me, you’ve just accomplished something you’ve been dreaming about your whole life. 

Unfortunately, after a few weeks of classes and practice, you’ve probably already realized it’s not exactly all sunshine and rainbows from here. That being said, I wanted to share with you a few things I’ve learned over the past four years that might help.

First of all, you are not a softball player. Well, you are, but you are so much more than that. Do not let playing time, stats or numbers define you. Your self-worth should be separate from your spot on the depth chart. Create an identity away from the game. Pick up hobbies, join clubs, try new things, meet new people. You’re only a student athlete once, but you’re also only in college once. The sport you play is just a game. Games are supposed to be fun. I promise when all is said and done, that strikeout you had in the third game of your freshman year isn’t going to be what you remember most. Time is going to fly by. Trust me, it feels like just yesterday I was brushing my teeth in the communal bathroom of South. So, try to make the most of every day while you can. 

My second piece of advice is to lean on each other. Being a young woman, in college, on an athletic team, is extremely mentally taxing. The pressure you’re under is immense and real. You’re going to experience anxiety, heartbreak, failure, self-doubt and all those other bad things you thought you left behind in high school. But you don’t have to go through these things alone. Let me repeat myself — you are never alone. You are not a burden. Ask for help and don’t shy away from it when it’s offered. On the flip side, be there to listen. Reach out. You never know what someone is hiding behind their smile. This team is your home away from home. We are all family, and you’d be shocked at how much a family can overcome.

Finally, remember that you are supposed to be here. Being a college athlete means being part of the one percent. It’s an honor and a privilege, but also a testament to all of your hard work. If someone tries to say you’re not good enough, let your own voice ring louder. The belief you have in yourself is going to carry you further than the opinions of someone else. You are beautiful. You are strong. You are talented. You are intelligent. You are capable. And you are enough. 

Good luck this year. It’ll be a grind, but it’ll be worth it. If you need anything, I’m here. 

Yours Truly,

Kelly Bright 

P.S. No, the run doesn’t get easier. Five years later and I still don’t have tips for that one, sorry.