As spring sports are in full swing, FCHS athletes are getting busier. Between the early morning workouts, late-night games, homework, and everything else that life decides to throw at them, some may wonder “Why am I pushing myself so hard?” or “Does it even matter in the long run?”
Truth is, motivation isn’t just about winning games, it’s about pushing yourself, staying disciplined, and learning how to keep going even when things get hard.
Every athlete has something that drives them. Whether it’s a love for the game, a dream of playing at the next level, or just proving to yourself what you’re capable of, knowing what fuels you is the key to staying motivated. Having a strong why is what keeps athletes from giving up.
“Determination, drive, and faith in God all inspire and motivate me,” said senior Caden Harris. He feels that this mindset helps him stay focused, even on days when he’s tired or things aren’t going his way.
Sometimes motivation comes from the people around you. “What motivates me as an athlete is being surrounded by uplifting and supportive people. A support system full of teammates, coaches, family, and friends can truly make all the difference,” said sophomore Mallory Esch.
A team with members that support each other celebrates not only the big wins, but also the little accomplishments, while pushing through losses together. Whether it’s a teammate hyping you up after a bad day, a coach pushing you to do your best, or a friend reminding you why you started in the first place, having the right people around you makes it easier to stay in the fight and keep going.
Let’s be real: No one feels motivated all the time. There will be bad games, injuries, tough practices, and days when you feel like you can’t give 100%. But that’s when the real drive kicks in. For example, junior Logan Bishop finds his strength in his faith and the people who support him.
“Jesus is my ultimate motivation. However, the drive I get from being surrounded by family and friends is also a huge factor,” he said.
When motivation fades, that’s when discipline takes over. Bishop continued, “I pray before every game, and I even have Bible verses on my cleats. I always ask God for strength and guidance.” He emphasizes that his faith is what truly leads him as an athlete.
At the end of the day, sports are more than just winning. The motivation student-athletes build now will carry them throughout their lives, whether they keep playing or take on new challenges. So if you feel like giving up, take a step back, remember what drives you, surround yourself with people who believe in you, and keep showing up even when it’s hard. Because in the end, success isn’t just about talent. It’s about heart, focus, and the will to keep pushing forward.
