GAME ON: From RI to the NCAA - Kellie Mason
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Each year the most accomplished scholar-athletes take their awards and state championships and head off to compete in colleges and universities across the country. RI's Kellie Mason is playing field hockey at St. Francis University. Learn what the East Greenwich Sophomore has to say about the transition from high school to college.
How was the transition from being a high school athlete to becoming an athlete in college?
The transition from a high school athlete to a college athlete is that the bar is raised in all aspects: the pressure is greater, the competition is stronger and the will to compete is even more essential. Field hockey has truly become my life since I have had the opportunity to call myself a college athlete. My love for this game encompasses every aspect of my life from scheduling classes, to what I eat, and often determines how late I am up at night doing homework after practice!
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTWhat do you miss most about playing in high school?
What I miss most about playing in high school is the whole atmosphere of the game day. I miss wearing our jerseys to school, painting the rock, having a night game under the lights in the middle of town, and being able to go home after and talk about it all with my mom.
What is your biggest challenge as a college athlete?
My biggest challenge as a college athlete is to continuously push myself. I know that I have to raise the bar everyday by challenging my teammates and myself. Our coach tells us that the only way to improve and develop is to step out of our comfort zone and the challenge is being comfortable when uncomfortable. The demand to improve daily is a challenge but with twenty other girls next to you, you definitely have a support and reason to keep pushing.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your athletic career?
The most rewarding aspect of my athletic career has been watching my younger teammates succeed. The field hockey program in East Greenwich is gradually growing. By coaching youth teams throughout high school and helping at clinics and summer leagues, I am so proud that I can say I have been a part of all of their accomplishments. There is no feeling more rewarding than watching the success of a teammate or a player that I have had the opportunity to help.
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