It's time to take a step back from our busy schedules and reflect on what we are thankful for. For many of us this can be family, good health, kids, friends, a good career, pets, and the list goes on. Today we are here to talk about, "Why we are thankful to be Friars."
For those who have not played college sports some might think, "You played college sports, so what?" Those who have played at the collegiate level know it's so much more. It is an indescribable experience that stays with you for a lifetime.
In just four years college athletics provides you with an invaluable toolbox. Being a college athlete allows you to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals with strength and integrity. College athletics prepares you to excel at your career. For some this might be becoming a corporate executive, a doctor, a teacher, a lawyer, or a dedication to helping others and changing society. Whatever you pursue, you do it with excellence. Whether it's an exam, a presentation, a board meeting, or a workout, you call on your experience as an athlete to take you through any challenge.
Not all college athletes share the same experience. Some have won championships, some strive to break .500. Some have great coaches while other have been less fortunate. Putting all of this aside you will find the learning experience is the same. No matter what your record was or how well you got along with your coach, we were all given the same opportunity. We were given the tools to build a successful life. It is up to the athlete as an individual to decide whether they are going to open up the toolbox and get to work.
Here's why 5 Division I Field Hockey players are thankful to be a Friar:
"Being a Friar has taught me lessons that go far beyond the turf. I am thankful to be a friar because being a friar taught me important life lessons that helped and continue to help guide me in my journey becoming a chiropractor. Practice makes perfect and practice takes time, dedication and sacrifice. To become a good field hockey player and friar athlete, you can't just show up to the field and expect to perfect the skills required to compete at an elite level. As I embark on my mission to help as many people as possible gain their health back, I look back on my time as a friar and it motivates me to keep developing my skills. Dedication to your craft is a necessary part of becoming great at whatever you desire to do in life. Thank you friar athletics for helping me learn these important life lessons." -Friar‘10
"The people that I met during my time at Providence College are not just ordinary acquaintances to me, but rather an extraordinary extended family. No matter what the occasion, whenever I am reunited with my fellow Friars I find myself instantly hugging, smiling, laughing and glowing with pure happiness. Knowing that I have this extended family that can bring such joy to my life is just one of the many reasons why I am, and always will be, thankful to be a Friar!" -Friar '07
"I am thankful to be a friar because of the great opportunities it has provided me. It has opened doors and given me confidence in the workplace." -Friar'00
"Being a college athlete gave me the skill set that has allowed me to navigate a successful career and develop life long relationships. I continue to meet athletes along the way. Their stories humble me and push me to be a better person. It also allows me to reflect and give thanks." -Friar '03
"I am thankful to be a Friar because in the real world, Friar are willing to help other Friars. Even if you didn't know them in college" - Friar '10
If you were a college athlete take the time to reflect on what the experience gave you and how it continues to give long after the jersey is hung up. Though prosperity and adversity we achieve success. Reflect on the good times and the bad. Collectively they make you who you are. Give thanks to those people and experiences that helped you along the way.
Once a Friar. Always a Friar.
Thank you for taking the time to read this. Feel free to share with your friends.
The Future Friar Team