The Emotions of the Final Four

The final four weekend brings out so much emotion for the players, their family, the coaching staff, and of course, for the fans. Being a former student-athlete at UCLA and watching the #UCLABruins advance to the #finalfour, I was beyond excited for them.

I understand these athletes' emotions more than the average fan because I've been in their shoes. My senior year, we were on the road against Duke, the #1 team in the nation. We were down 0-2 with about 30 minutes left, and the fear that this might be my last game began to set in. When we won 3-2 in OT to advance to the College Cup (soccer's version of the final four), It's tough to describe that emotion, that feeling of pure joy. 

I think it's also essential to recognize those who lost this past week in the elite eight because I've been there also. In my freshman year, we were favored to repeat as national champions and lost at home to the University of Indiana. Although I shared a story above of the thrill of advancing to the College Cup my senior year, we lost in the National Championship (photo to the right). I was in a dark place mentally. I couldn't sleep for weeks.

It's important to remember that as fun as the March Madness tournament is, these are young men and women who put their very being into their craft and when the emotion is high, the letdown is that much more impactful. If you happen to know any of these athletes, be sure to reach out and connect with them. These games are more than basketball because, for some, it's the pinnacle of their athletic career. 

Best of luck to all the players fighting for a national championship! Praying for a safe and injury-free weekend for all.