cadet blogs

The Magic of 1600

(Athletics, Class of 2014) Permanent link All Posts

Every day when 1600 (the end of the class-day) strikes, there is a renewed sense of energy that resonates throughout the Academy. Everyone’s morale skyrockets because not only is another long day finally coming to an end, but the best part of the day has finally come: sports period. Sports – or any other club – here at the Academy is a great way to get involved with the corps but also find a close group of friends.

Being on the swim team has helped me get through long days and some of the rough times here at the Academy. I look forward to seeing my friends at the pool and swimming hard sets together. Swimming helps me relieve stress because for at least two hours, I can act like a normal person even with upperclassmen. I don’t have to address the upperclass as “sir” and “ma’am” and I can call them by their first name. They are just teammates. It’s also a time where I don’t have to think about anything military or academic and can lose my mind in intense workouts. After swimming ends, I feel a great satisfaction that I accomplished a hard set. Finishing the day with that sense of accomplishment is the best because it gives me more energy to tackle homework back in the barracks. Being part of any team at the Academy is very rewarding and I highly encourage you to find your niche here wherever it may be.

Only twelve more days until I get to go home for winter leave! Have a great holiday season, God Bless, and thanks for reading!

More about Carol.

Posted by Leann Strickland at 2/14/2012 3:45 PM