How CDA Helped Shape My Life To Be A Follower Of Christ

3/5/2018

"From academics, to friendships, to a steadfast Christian community, Coram Deo has helped shaped me as a student and as a follower of Christ...The players and coaches I've had the pleasure of meeting through the CDA soccer program will continue to be a major part of my life in the years to come, and for that I am forever grateful." - Senior student athlete Kennedy Hassmann.

As a senior in high-school, I often think back on the last four years I've spent at CDA and the memories that go along with them. From academics, to friendships, to a steadfast Christian community, Coram Deo has helped shaped me as a student and as a follower of Christ. CDA has incredible teachers and uniquely-encouraging atmosphere.

One of the most unique aspects of CDA is the soccer program, filled with coaches and players alike who genuinely strive to help each other succeed, both on and off the field. Before my junior year of high school and the addition of the women's soccer team to the athletic department, girls who wanted to play soccer at CDA had to play against mostly male players on a co-ed team. In those years, my motivation to play soccer all stemmed from a desire to prove myself and my athletic ability, since most, if not all, of my opponents were bigger, faster, stronger, and more skilled than I.

Despite never being able to outrun our opponents, myself and the other girls on the co-ed team learned to out-smart our opponents through simple passes and techniques, despite obvious physical disadvantages. Even though I was one of the slowest players on the team, through a strong motivation to prove my worth as a player, I was able to find success even in the midst of struggle.

Competing in soccer teaches you more than the rules of the game; it provides you with tools that translate into other aspects of your life. Soccer is a physically demanding sport. The amount of effort you exert into practice usually determines the success you have on the field in a game. Unfortunately, despite hours of hard work, not every game will result in a win, no matter how much effort is given. Sometimes, defeat occurs even if 100% is put into the cause. That's just the reality of life. You win some, you lose some, and no matter how you do individuality, or as a team, you must remember; while the result of the game isn't always in your hands, your reaction to the outcome of the game is.

Soccer is nearly impossible to play without other people. After all, where’s the fun in passing the ball to yourself? Soccer was made to be played with teammates, especially those who carry the burden of both wins and losses as one unit. Being a part of a team has given me glimpses into how to handle real life relationships. These relationships require collaboration, just like working with teammates to pass the ball, or communicating with each other so no one is left out of the play. Soccer has taught me that success isn't just given out individually, but earned as a unified group.

Taking risks - such as shooting for the goal from mid-field or dribbling the ball all the way up the sideline - can lead to failure, but can also lead to a hard-earned victory. In February of 2016, I underwent ACL re-constructive surgery on my right knee. Right before the surgery took place, my doctor warned me that there was a high chance I would not be in physical shape for the 2017 soccer season. However, on the off-chance I was physically prepared, I would be stronger and faster than ever before. Being the persistent and slightly stubborn person I am, I chose to take the risk and undergo ACL surgery, despite the odds of a speedy recovery not being in my favor.

After countless hours of physical therapy and prayer, I miraculously returned to the soccer field in less than six months, stronger and faster than ever before. I won the first TAPPS 1st All-District award of my high-school soccer career. Had I not been surrounded by such supportive teammates and coaches who encouraged me to take the risk of undergoing re-constructive surgery, I may not have ever returned to playing the sport that has gradually changed my life for the better.

The players and coaches I've had the pleasure of meeting through the CDA soccer program will continue to be a major part of my life in the years to come, and for that I am forever grateful.

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