“I’m fine,” “I’m okay,” and “I’m good,” were the only three responses I had from the ages of 16 to 20 whenever a coach, family member, or friend asked me how I was doing. I actually thought I was “fine” for a long time. But after years of bottling up mixed emotions and feelings, I…
Olivia Duarte: Falling Back In Love with Lacrosse
My name is Olivia Duarte, and for as long as I can remember I have loved the game of lacrosse. The first semester of my senior year in college, that changed. I spent hours on the phone with my Mom telling her I hated lacrosse and wanted to quit. My mom being the incredible person…
BMX Rider Jocelyn Camarra: You. Are. Perfect.
Our editors sat down with BMX rider Joce Camarra to chat about her mental health journey. You can learn more about Joce and follow her on Instagram at @joc313 Introduce yourself to our followers.Hey everyone! My name is Joce –pronounced Jah-ss, short for Jocelyn! I’m 29 years old and I ride freestyle BMX. I love anything…
Nick Lee: I won’t stay silent
This piece was first published by Outsports on August 17, 2021. “Maricón.” In late May, I was playing doubles in an away match for a U.S. Tennis Assn. men’s 5.0 league in Westchester, New York, when a player on the opposing team yelled this word to himself in the singles match one court over after…
Creating a Happy Home for Kids of All Ages
By Leslie Campos of Well Parents A happy childhood starts at home. As parents, it’s up to you to create a space where your child can thrive. But where do you start? The Hidden Opponent works to address the stigma of mental health issues and addiction among student-athletes. While there’s no perfect recipe for a…
Maggie Werba: I’m Not Where I Thought I’d Be at 23
Maggie Werba shared her mental health journey with us in January, 2021. Now, she reflects on her career while watching the Olympics. Maggie has found joy in food blogging for her Instagram and website. Sitting on the couch, eating homemade gluten-free granola, curled up with my new puppy, fiance, and a good book –oh, and…
Anthony Pecorella: Healthy Minds
My name is Anthony Joseph Pecorella. I was born and raised in Malverne, New York by two loving parents, Anthony and Marisa. I have one sibling, a twin sister named Alessia, who is my best friend. I am currently a sophomore finance major in the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of…
Madison Wolfbauer: Trust The Process
My story isn’t simple. I’ve had many challenges, but I would love to share in hopes that even one person can relate. I committed to the University of Illinois when I was 15 years old. My club soccer team was well known and many of my teammates went on to play D1 soccer at top…
Alexandra Millet: Transferring Taught Me
I remember my postseason meeting with my coach after my freshman season at Southeastern University like it was yesterday. I had worked myself to the max all year. I became stronger, faster, improved my skills, and our team made it to the national championship. Yet I remember walking out of that meeting defeated. All year,…
Fletcher Byrd: My Professional Dream Reimagined
The two biggest fears of any athlete: failing and quitting. Every motivational speaker, inspiring story, and sports movie preaches the mottos of “don’t quit” and “never stop trying,” but what happens when your sport brings you more pain than joy? Growing up, like many kids, I wanted to become a Major League Baseball player. Ever…
