“Heart is the difference between those that attempt and those that achieve”

Now that spring volleyball season is winding down and we are only a few weeks from being done with the term, our heads are heading for the books to prepare for upcoming midterms, finals, and papers.  Even though classes, homework, studying, volleyball practice, conditioning, meetings, and weights monopolize our weekdays, we love taking some time on the weekends to support other Dartmouth sports teams.  This weekend in particular offered exciting matchups and competition.  The first event that many on the team attended was the spring football game.  Since both football and volleyball are fall sports, the schedules often conflict and we rarely get to watch each other’s games.  This weekend, however, provided the perfect opportunity to watch and support some of our fellow football friends.  Even though it was not an official game, it was great to see the guys go at it and show off in front of all the pretty girls in the stands.

The second event that a lot of the girls participated in was a 3 v 3 basketball tournament for the Haven charity for the homeless.  The girls were coached by fellow Dartmouth basketball players and were absolutely fantastic in showing off their basketball skills.   As you can see from the picture below, they brought their serious focus and enthusiasm to the competition and left it all on the court for a very good cause. 

Despite the crazy bipolar weather, our Dartmouth teams in season rose to the occasion and dominated the weekend.  Dartmouth women’s crew won the Parent’s cup over UCF and Cornell.  Dartmouth baseball beat Yale 11-4 qualifying for the playoffs and clinching the Rolfe Division crown.  Finally, Dartmouth softball beat Penn for the Ivy League Championship title! I know I can speak for everyone when I say that I am so thrilled and grateful to be part of the Dartmouth athletic community.  To be surrounded by so many amazing athletes, coaches, and fans is such a privilege.  I am so proud of the dedication that exemplifies my teammates and fellow athletes in other sports, striving to achieve personal and team goals while representing their college with pride and honor.

The success enjoyed by the spring sports teams is inspirational and motivating, especially with our season commencing a short 3 1/3 months away.  The amount of hours this team has logged in the weight room, conditioning sessions, volleyball practices, in addition to our team homework assignments and meetings reflects our focused commitment to be the best we can be and to hopefully achieve what our pier athletes have achieved this spring.  It is so exciting to visualize our potential if we keep up the good work.  Our growth both physical and mental is evident thanks to our coaches, trainers and enthusiastic teammates. “Heart is the difference between those that attempt and those that achieve” and from what I see, this team has a whole lot of heart and a bright future. GO BIG GREEN!!

-Stacey Benton #10