Bucknell University Athletics
Bucknell Women's Swimming Journal - Ellen Carter Stagg
10/29/2008 8:00:00 AM | Women's Swimming and Diving
Oct. 29, 2008
October 28 ... already? I often find myself doing a double-take to my calendar to make sure my eyes aren't playing tricks on me. It is hard to believe that it's the end of October, and that November lurks around the corner; where has the time gone? However, don't be fooled. I certainly have my days where I feel like I've been here for years--yes the ones with a 5:30 a.m. wake-up call accompanied by swimming and lifting. Who knew you could fit so much into a mere 67 days? Well, welcome to college Ellen Carter. Every muscle in my body aches - I feel like I've been hit by a train come six o'clock each day - and I'm being challenged in the classroom like never before. Yet, it has been both enjoyable and manageable thanks to all of my teammates.
Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays: D-Days. I constantly ask myself why am I doing this, but am quickly reminded at the swing of the locker room door. A "Good morning giiiiiiirl!" greets my arrival from a positive teammate. The women's team has already taught me more than they'll ever know, fostering in me spirit and compassion. I watch these girls three mornings a week in pure amazement: full of energy, full of joy, full of life. It's evident they are here to train, eager to realize their goals. That is what I love about this team and this sport; we're all in this together. Having recently suffered the loss of a close friend, I have never felt more beaten up and defeated. Yet, the team has been more than I could've asked for--a support system, a shoulder to cry on, the source of my laughter, a hug when I need one, my backbone, and most importantly, my family.
Practices are challenging, yet entertaining, as each teammate brings his or her own unique energy to the workout. The pool deck is nothing but a positive environment as we push one another to work while it hurts, not until it hurts. I feel so honored to be a part of this team. Athletes chase goals, but we are chasing a dream. This team never ceases to impress me; it approaches every obstacle as an opportunity. My teammates have helped me to realize that the process of achieving is just as great as the achievement itself. I anxiously await what this season has in store for us and I eagerly anticipate the thrill of Patriots.
We've only just begun our journey as we approach our third meet this weekend. We are doing this ... together!
- Ellen Carter Stagg '12
