I was five years old when I first started playing soccer. Since then, I have competed in so many different sports. I’ve tried tennis, dance, skiing, basketball, volleyball and others. Since a young age I have always been competing in sports. They bring me so much joy. I love to compete and try to improve each day as an athlete. But beyond the physical and mental strength that sports have helped me reach-the true joy of sports is in the people I meet. Sports have been one of the greatest things not that have happened to me, not because my life revolves around soccer or basketball or volleyball but because the people I meet have changed me for the better. My coaches and teammates have been examples to me and truly have become my friends that I love. Sports have created an environment for me where I feel welcomed and valued. Competing at all different levels helps me understand my potential and motivates me to be better in every aspect of my life. I am so so grateful for the relationships I have been able to create through sports. I’m grateful for the relationship  I’ve been able to build with my family, specifically my dad, as we talk and laugh and sometimes cry over the games we compete in and love. Sports to me have been a tool to connect with so many people, and I wouldn’t change that for the world.