Melissa Dooley
Dr. Irwin
Writing 109
September 16, 2010
The True Meaning of a Team
I thought I knew it all. I thought since I was a four year senior I could explain the ins and outs of this game- water polo- which I love so much. I thought my stats showed the person I am, inside and out of the water. Little did I know, I had only mastered half of the battle- the physical standpoint of the game; however, my coach, Tina Rivera, changed what being on a team really meant to me by showing me that the bonds someone makes with their teammates and the obstacles that are overcome mean more in life than how many goals scored or how many victories one has. Corresponding to the way Rivera’s caring and optimistic attitude made my waterpolo season; moreover, my life a more enjoyable experience, Joshua Bell’s violin teacher, Josef Gingold, taught Joshua not with strict rules or harsh punishments but with love and compassion which ultimately gave Joshua the freedom to love his music rather than feel as though it was a chore to practice.
After Rivera graduated from college she wanted to give back to her community and figured that there was no better way than to give someone the peace of mind that he or she had someone to talk to who would genuinely care about them. Rivera always emphasized the importance of getting to know a person more than just what is on the outside but rather the true person who may be hiding their true colors. It was October 21; the day that had been on everyone minds for a whole year. It was the day of our first game and anticipations were as high as ever, our team was stacked with five returning seniors and a hand full of talented young freshman who were willing to give everything they had to win. This, unlike a normal game was part of a tournament set which means the team would have to play again only a few hours later but we were all determined to win. Unfortunately, our determination and hope was worth little when the game was over and...