December 08, 2005
The transition from a high school athlete to a collegiate athlete is challenging. Being a freshman in college there are many physical, emotional and mental obstacles an athlete undergoes.
The first year in college is a wake-up call for any freshman. I'm very happy I chose Texas A&M to attend college and play basketball. I believe A&M is the perfect place for me. The coaching staff is intense, but a lot of fun. That's what I like most about Aggie women's basketball. We are a real family here.
The practices were something I had to get used to. They aren't like high school where you can slack off because of lack of competition. This is a competitive atmosphere that has no room for mediocrity. I play twice as hard as I did when I was in high school. Practices are where the physical challenges happen. Your body has to have the proper care and preparation.
I have dealt with emotional issues as well this year. I love the fact that A&M is a short drive away from home, but being home sick and missing my family was still affecting me when I first got here. I'm a daddy's girl.
Mentally I had to balance my basketball affairs with school. The mental aspect is something I still have to keep in check. Being ready and focused in practices and in games is a concurrent thing.
Coach Blair always tells me, "Don't get too high and don't get too low." Meaning, when things are going good for me, don't get a big head. When things aren't going good, don't get too hard myself. It's good advice.
Being here in Aggieland, I've gotten to experience a week in Hawaii. It was really fun to experience a trip like that with my team. I think it strengthened our bond with one another. Our team took the trip as a learning experience and as a building block. The chance to play a ranked team like DePaul prepared us for our recent win over Washington.
Our women's basketball team is on a quest for greatness this year. We are determined to make a statement in our league.
T-kay Starks
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