Let me just start off with saying how thankful I am for this program to give me the opportunity to continue the game that I love.
While sports not only helps in developing my physical and mental health, it also develops the life skills of my personality. It enhanced my capabilities and helped to have a better understanding of myself. Sports also helped me in developing social skills and getting along with people. I learned to interact not only with people of my age but also with adults like my coaches, staff, and parents.
Basketball taught me constructive use of time and discipline. I learned that this is a major characteristic of any athlete. The commitment of time to be in a particular place at a particular time everyday helped me develop this important thing called time management. It also taught me to be patient and disciplined which helped me cope with criticism and setbacks, which every athlete has experienced at least once in their lifetime.
Lastly, playing sports made me create friendships that otherwise might never have formed. I am currently 23 years old and remain intact with many of my former basketball teammates from college and even high school. I can happily say that I know these are friendships that will last a lifetime. Sports even bring people together from all over the world, regardless of their nationality, religion, culture, or skin color. 
For example, Sport Changes Life brought me 21 friends that I never would’ve met if it wasn’t for this program. It also brought me one of my best friends that I currently live with in Galway and play on the same basketball team. If it wasn’t for her, my experience in Ireland would’ve been so much different. Even when we go back to America, I know I will always have her, no matter the distance.
So thank you basketball. Thank you for everything you have taught me; the good, the bad, the hard times, the great times, and everything in between. You have truly changed me.
~Karlee
