Play Ball, Again
I rediscovered volleyball here in Canada. For context, I have played volleyball on and off for about 10 years of my life. During preparatory school, I got to the level of Nationale 2, which in France is equivalent to a semi-pro level.
After preparatory school, I went back to Estonia for a year to do my mandatory military service. So that was a first break from volleyball, since it was played in the barracks, but as leisure and not as training.
During my military service, I was offered the role of treasurer of the student council upon my return to Lille. I was very pleased with that opportunity. That being said, I knew that this would eat up a lot of my time. Having that, plus nearly 4 trainings a week, would have been difficult to handle.
Through that decision, I cut volleyball out of my life for two more years. Quick-forward to Montréal. I was done with my responsibilities as treasurer and had a clean slate. I could do whatever I wanted with no constraints. I had mostly forgotten about volleyball, except for the occasional game with friends or my brother when returning to Estonia.
Some voice in my head made me look into volleyball options here. Turns out ETS, where I am currently studying, had a team. So I contacted the club and went to tryouts. After 3 separate tryout days, I was officially on the team.
I am very happy to get to play again and am thoroughly surprised that my level has not lowered and might even be better than before. The reason, in my eyes, is that I have been hitting the gym consistently and building up the strength that a 20-year-old simply could not have. This strength is now combined with 10 years of volleyball experience.
So I know how I am supposed to move in different scenarios, and now I actually can with more ease and power. Some reflexes need to be trained to level again, but it seems to be a lot easier from my current position.
This break from volleyball does make me appreciate the sport a lot more. For my foreseeable future, I think I will find my way back to the game regardless of where I end up living.
This Week's Suggestions:
📖 "On The Road" by Jack Kerouac:
Currently reading this book that supposedly defined the Beat Generation of post WWII America, and I love it so far. It is such an easy read, yet it does not feel empty.
I had a mild memory of having named a post Play Ball already, and I was right. Here's that post from October of 2021. Interesting to see how my writing and perception have evolved.
🎶 "Poema De La Noche" by Lost.Act remixed by Calabasa:
Found this one recently. As I currently would say to friends "c'est du gasoil". Simple, efficient, has that little vocal going some round and clean bass and a crisp kick to bring it all together.
Till next time!