Athletics create an opportunity to endure challenges and explore learning and self-development opportunities. It has the ability to bridge gaps between people and help establish lasting friendships. Throughout an athlete’s journey, they learn how to persevere, lean on teammates, and work through the grind. The Campus Recreation Complex (CRC) has many student-athletes who have learned important lessons throughout their athletic careers. Every sport may be different but they all teach the same lessons. Learn from different CRC sport club executive members about their biggest takeaways from participating in CRC club sports.

Makenna Laffey, swim club president said, “The number one lesson all swimmers learn is dedication. Only certain people can jump into a freezing cold pool at 5 AM on Christmas Eve.”  Laffey who has been a competitive swimmer for over 16 years learned the value of dedication through the routine of early morning practices even when the insides of her eyelids were calling.  The strong dedication of Laffey and the rest of the swim club led to back to back national titles at the FINIS College Club Swimming National Championship.

Gavin McGuire, Yellow Jacket Fencing Club (YJFC) vice president, understands the importance of hard work, focus, and practice. He said, “It’s often said that practice makes perfect, but this isn’t completely true. It’s better to say that perfect practice makes perfect.” He takes this principle and applies it to school as well. “In academics, you can have study groups, team meetings, and review sessions, but if you’re not really paying attention or if your practice isn’t perfect, then you won’t get the results you are looking for,” said McGuire. During the semester, the YJFC travels to tournaments throughout the southeast. They also learn time-management and planning skills by hosting the Yellow Jacket Fencing Open every March.

Equestrian club president, Quinn Larimer finds time management and patience to be the greatest lessons club sports has taught her. The team practices 3-5 times a month and travels across the region to numerous shows every semester. Practicing strong time management is important in balancing school and practice and remaining successful in both.

Athletics not only challenges individuals physically but also mentally. Throughout an athletic career, student-athletes learn a variety of life skills that can be applied to their academics and professional careers. If you are interested in becoming a student-athlete with the CRC go to crc.gatech.edu/sports/clubs to check out the different sport clubs available.