Personal Narrative: How Basketball Changed My Life

“Why even try” is something I would say to myself on a daily basis. I am not much of a risk taker, whether it is trying new foods or talking to new people. Throughout my life I have never really taken any chances and run away from them, rather than giving them a try. It was until my freshman year in high school when my attitude changed, from why even try to why not. Although I did not realize it at the time, basketball changed my life for the better. Through perseverance and hard work, I learned to not let fear or insecurity stop me from trying new things. Throughout my life I was never the athletic type and never tried to be due to my fear of failing. I was the friend that demanded to watch and would not care to learn. Although I was interested in trying new things, I was insecure about myself to even try. My insecurity and fear always got the best of me and was a huge barrier in my life. Entering high school, I began a new chapter in my life and decided to start fresh. I remember the first day of school crystal clear. It was a hot summer day filled with laughter and joy. Everyone was excited about catching up with friends, while others were thrilled
The basketballs were thumping all over the gymnasium floor. People were sweating from the anxiety and were curious to know who would make the team. Tryouts felt like an eternity. Everyone was exhausted from running up and down the court. No one really knew what to expect because all we did was play a simple game of basketball. Some girls complained about the tryouts not being fair due to them no having a bad game. Other girls cheered with excitement as if they knew they were going to make the team. Tryouts finally came to an end. The girls scanned the room looking up and down trying to determine who would stay and who would leave. Sadly, we all stayed waiting. The official team was going to be revealed until the next