Overpowering Adversity by Juan

Overpowering Adversity by Juan - February 2019 Scholarship Essay

In my mind, I have always felt like I have been a confident and predominant person. When people say I can not do things, that is something I am going to remember and hold on to. It is only another reason to help me stay focused and motivated.

Going into my sophomore year for football season, I was being heavily criticized by family members, my coaches, and my teammates. It was one of those times where everything that I did to please someone’s opinion was not good enough. It was one of those times where my actions was inferior to someone else’s. It was one of those times where no one would notice how I dedicated myself to this sport. I remember during that time one of my coaches had seemed to notice my abrupt change in behavior. He assured to me “when your time comes, take advantage because you never know how many you’ll get.”

The following week I came into practice with an open mind. I was optimistic and open to any suggestions of improvement. The only thing on my mind that week was to earn a starting spot. The only important thing on my mind was to prove to my coaches that I am capable of playing at the level my teammates are playing.

I kept telling myself I was worthy. Those late night workouts, worthy, those spectacular catches at practice, worthy.

When game-day finally came around, my coach informed me that I would be starting for today’s game. I was immediately engulfed into a rush. A rush that was extremely unfamiliar to me and a rush that made my heart pound. I was ecstatic and proud.

During the middle of the game, my coach called my name out and told me “this is your play. Make it happen.” I was so nervous that I prayed to god and begged him to please help me catch this. I remember lining up on the white line shaking and feeling nervous. My palms were sweating and at that moment, I reflected on how hard I worked in order to set foot on the field. The referee blew the whistle and the quarterback yelled “GO!” I ran as fast as I could seeing the ball in the air. I soon felt the ball touch my hands.

I will never forget the roar of the crowd under those Friday night lights.

Ever since then, I was viewed totally different by everyone who ever doubted me. If I could have any job in the world it would easily be an NFL wide receiver. By going to college, I will not only have an opportunity to achieve my dream job but to also get a degree if all else fails. I want to major in kinesiology. Going to college and majoring in kinesiology will benefit me as far as knowing what to do and what not to do to help keep my body in shape to go pro. I will definitely never forget this moment because I had dreamed about that moment so many times, and it was a great feeling when I made my dream into reality.