Everyone has at least one favorite childhood element that still sticks with them, usually a memory, activity, hobby, or for me, a sport. Growing up, I would participate in various sports, all different and unique in their own way. There is, however, only one I started playing as a child and still love today: badminton.
In elementary school, I would rarely have any homework to complete after school, giving me time to play badminton. It was a fun sport I played with my father and sometimes my friends as a way to get exercise, fresh air, or just for fun.
As the years progressed and I began middle school, I still found time to enjoy badminton despite my busy work schedule. This helped me realize how much I genuinely enjoyed the sport, going outside with my racket almost every day to play no matter how hot or cold the weather was.
When I entered high school, I tried out for the badminton team. Making the team transformed a childhood pastime into a competitive pursuit, and I love being surrounded by people who share the same interest as me.
When the season began, I made plenty of memories that have impacted on me. From the joy of seeing my name on the badminton roster alongside my friends’ to going to badminton practice for the first time ever, I will cherish the excitement being on the badminton team has given me.
One of my most vivid memories is when I won my first game – the first one of the season – against Los Altos High School. I was elated after my badminton partner and I won.
The dedication I have to winning each game, however, has come at a cost. Practices are often grueling, and I returned home exhausted, in no mood to complete the load of homework I had to do. Still, the joy I found while playing badminton has motivated me to continue playing competitively.
Sticking to the sport I love even through occasional hardships and obstacles has rewarded me with everlasting memories and joy I would never have found elsewhere. From staying late after school for competitions and practices to winning a game for the first time, I have found many new memories that will be with me for years to come. Hanging out with my friends, sharing snacks before games and laughing off our mistakes together, the season passed by in a whir, filling me with excitement for next year.