Life's Game Changers

Life's Game Changers

Darius Cummings

To be successful not only in college but also in life itself, I believe everyone needs to acquire certain characteristics which I've gained by experiences with family friends and sports. Determination, self-discipline, motivation, and an incredible work ethic. Football, to me, is more than just a game. I've learned and gained these detrimental traits for overall success by playing this game that I love. Ever since I was in third grade trying out for the all-star football team I've strived through mental challenges that have felt like a brick wall. Standing outside in the warmth of summer, I feel the slight breeze rushing against my body. As the coach was giving his introduction speech I was looking around sizing up all of the other players. I was the smallest person out there. First, I had doubts but then I remembered what my mom told me when she dropped me off. She said that I'm destined for greatness and I can do anything that I put my mind to. I made the team, I also was the backup running back. I wasn't satisfied, after practice, I would run a few laps around the track. As sweat trickled down I had a feeling that I was doing all the right things to excel at my position. In week two I got the starting position and when my coach gave the news on the inside I screaming with excitement. Today as a high school football player I have the same drive. In practice, I work as hard as I can because I always wanted to be the best player on any field I am on. In this situation, I displayed a great deal of determination by not giving up.

Self-discipline is crucial in football. From the schemes our coaches drew up to the early morning workouts to the focus required to keep my grades above a certain level, discipline was needed for every aspect of the sport. Lack of discipline can cost the team a game. Time runs out, walking on the field all sweaty with my wrist tape slightly torn off and my arm sleeve moist as rag after doing the dishes. I start to replay the game in my head. After my

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