By: Claire Thompson
Updated: Dec. 26, 2015
Originally Published: Aug. 9, 2015
Choosing to embrace my role as an outsider in California, I kept my hair a deep brunette and opted out of social sushi gatherings that seemed to dominate the scene. However, this solitary lifestyle soon left me yearning for a sense of belonging. I recognized that the best way to foster connections was through joining groups and engaging in activities, but what could I do? The California demographic is largely composed of youthful, energetic twenty-somethings, while I was approaching 40. What activity could I pursue without seeming like I was trying to relive my twenties?
On weekends, my couple friends encouraged me to join them for beach volleyball games, eagerly imploring me to participate as I arrived. I understood their enthusiasm, especially since I tower at an impressive 6 feet tall. Yet, I consistently smiled and replied, “Maybe later,” which really meant “never.”
My height led many to assume I had a natural talent for sports involving tall players. In high school, I caught the eye of several small college coaches who were keen to recruit me for their volleyball teams. They quickly changed their minds after seeing my lackluster skills during a brief assessment.
However, my perspective on volleyball began to shift while watching my friends play. I would often lounge on my towel, engrossed in a book, but I couldn’t help but be drawn to the vibrant energy around the volleyball nets. I observed how players greeted each other with warm familiarity, as if they hadn’t seen one another in years, and celebrated every point with high-fives. They played for joy, not competition, against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, often remaining until the sun dipped below the horizon.
I decided it was time to join in and quickly found an adult beginner beach volleyball class nearby, registering with excitement. It was time to make my middle school P.E. teachers proud and learn to spike the ball like a pro!
When we gathered for our first class, I was surprised to find only one other woman, along with a group of men. The instructor asked everyone to introduce themselves and share how long they had been playing volleyball. I was taken aback when the men revealed they had played for four years. Four years? The other woman responded with “four” too, but when I pressed her, she clarified she had only played four times. I immediately claimed her as my partner, as I figured I’d feel less embarrassed with someone else who was also new to the sport.
We began with simple exercises, tossing the ball back and forth using only one arm. I struggled with every attempt, feeling self-conscious as the hot sand scorched my feet and my skin began to redden from inadequate sunscreen. My arms ached from bumping the ball repeatedly, and I noticed bruises starting to form. But most notably, I found myself uttering “sorry” for every little mistake.
By the second class, I approached it with renewed determination. I repeated to myself, “I am good enough,” every time the ball missed the mark. I changed my body language, standing taller and more confidently, no longer hiding my height. To my delight, this shift worked! I struck the ball harder, and with each minor victory, my confidence blossomed. I stopped apologizing and began earning the respect of my teammates. Even the instructor remembered my name, a feat he had failed to achieve during our initial meeting.
As I continued to play, I began to appreciate volleyball and my developing skills, however limited. I noticed a newfound sense of pride, not just on the court but in my everyday life as well.
At nearly 40, I’ve come to realize there is no expiration date on learning new things and embracing new challenges. If you’re considering your own journey into parenthood or want to explore your options, check out this post about artificial insemination kits, which offers valuable insights. Additionally, if you’re interested in egg freezing, visit this authority on the topic for comprehensive information. And for more resources related to pregnancy and home insemination, this excellent resource can provide guidance.
In summary, my journey into volleyball has not only enhanced my physical skills but also empowered me to step outside my comfort zone and forge connections with others. Embracing new challenges at any age can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.