Words From a Wise Man

Lately I have definitely been in a rut both physically and mentally. Training has pushed me to my limit. There are times throughout the year when I simply don’t want to do the set that is given because it is really hard. I do it anyways and generally I always have a good time at practice. However, for some reason I feel as though this week I just don’t want to be at the pool. It’s not even that I don’t want to do the sets…I just don’t want to be at the pool. I haven’t quite figured out exactly why this is? I have no idea where I’d rather be either. I just don’t want to be training. I do it anyways because I know this is what makes me better and it is expected of me.

This morning I was in the weight-room after practice and I was talking to Bubba Thorton. Bubba is the head track and field coach at Texas and was also the head US Olympic Track coach. He is an incredibly relaxed and calm guy who always says things that make perfect sense. Bubba was a great football player and track athlete as well. We were talking about training and about being tired physically and mentally. He said being tired is a good thing. It’s healthy, and added that you need to be tired for a while so when you do feel better it is because you worked hard. I told him how I feel as though I’m in a rut mentally but that I’m just trying to stay focused and keep my mind right. Although I did acknowledge that I have been somewhat negative and down about my training lately. He told me it’s ok to get down sometimes, but, what really separates the winners from the loosers is being able to stay focused when your mind and body are literally at the breaking point. Bubba added, if you can do this you will be way ahead of your competitors.

It made perfect sense. I think I pretty much knew this to be true but hearing him say it made me realize it and put it into focus. I feel truly blessed and thankful that I am lucky enough to be surrounded by great coaches and athletes here at the University of Texas. I could most definitely not do this alone. Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me through everything! Your support means more to me than you could ever know:)