Junior, Avery Vierra has been a two sport athlete since she was in the fourth grade. She not only manages softball and basketball for the school, but also dedicates her time to travel softball outside school.
Being a multiple sport athlete can be challenging but Vierra said, “To mentally help myself during the transition from basketball to softball, I always focus on one thing at a time. I remind myself that basketball is my priority during the playoffs, and then I can focus on softball after.”
Constantly having a busy schedule year round can cause stress as well as drain the athlete both physically and mentally. Vierra finds ways to balance both her sports and academics.
She said, “As a student athlete, I have to overcome the stress of having homework along with my practices and games. I have learned to manage my time efficiently to keep up with my busy schedule.”
With basketball season ending Vierra has to change her ways in order to transition from basketball to softball, which can be difficult but not impossible.
Vierra said, “During basketball season I focus on my physical endurance and quick thinking, as basketball is an extremely fast paced sport. When training for softball, I still focus on my quick thinking to be ready for any game situation, while also working on my technique on the field.”
Proper techniques are key to being a successful athlete. Vierra is always staying productive and exercising her body to keep herself prepared for any circumstances the sport may throw at her.
She said, “To help manage my time during sports along with my academics, I set many reminders for when my assignments are due and keep a practice/game schedule. I am very fortunate to have teachers that are very accommodating to me and are willing to help keep me on track with my work during my sports seasons.”
The downsides of being a multiple sport athlete can build up very quickly but there are always lessons to be learned that will help the athlete in both their sport and life.
Vierra said, “Being a student athlete most definitely changed my mentally outside of sports, as I am always competitive with myself and wanting to improve in everything I do.”
Besides the downsides, sports are a way to connect with others and build friendships with other athletes from the same and different schools. Vierra said, “My favorite part about being a student athlete is all of the bonds that I make with my teammates each season.”
Student athletes are constantly adjusting their schedules. Flexibility is an important skill which Vierra has mastered leading her to be an outstanding athlete.
