Training at the Blue Barn

The Blue Barn became my home away from home.  On Saturdays, my dad drove me over in the morning and I stayed until late afternoon.  It was interesting to see wave after wave of players come in.  They’d all come in together, play a few games, then go home.  In between waves, I’d shoot free throws, waiting for the next set of players.   

I knew that I was playing well that day by how many people asked me, “What grade are you in?”  Or, “What school do you go to?”  I took pride in getting that question from random people who I’d play against.  This meant they were impressed by my skills and wanted to learn more about me.  When nobody asked, I knew I was off that day and had to work even harder.  My dad finally came back hours later, giving me the thumb in the motion of, “Let’s get out of here.”  When he came, sometimes I was relieved since I was so tired.  I’d make my final shot of the day then follow him to the car.   

Sometimes I’d see a dad and his son shooting baskets on the other end of the court, having fun and just messing around.  I’d think, Why do I put myself through this?  Why don’t I just treat basketball as fun instead of work so hard at it?  But then when I completed my workout two hours later, I felt the satisfaction of having worked my butt off, not taking it easy like everyone else had.  It’s easy to mess around.  It’s hard to stay disciplined, and I promised myself I’d get that Division 1 scholarship at any cost. 

These are the sacrifices I made to be a high level athlete.