Editor's note: This is a new series that NNUSports.com is launching titled "Letter to My Freshman Self." It is based off of The Players' Tribune's "Letter to My Younger Self" series. We will publish these once a month or so throughout the school year.
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ear Freshman Year Liv,
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You've been waiting all year for this. College. It's been right around the corner your whole senior year, but it's finally here. After a quick seven-hour drive, you'll be in your new home: Nampa, Idaho. Trust me, it'll be very different than Seattle but a good different. Be prepared to make life-long friendships, unforgettable memories and life-changing experiences.
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But you will be challenged. College won't be a breeze. Not only will your classes be harder, but you'll experience soccer like you never have. You'll face fitness tests, injuries and minute-less games. Your mind will be put to the test, and your muscles will be exhausted. But listen to me: it will all be worth it.
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You'll look back in four years and wonder where the time went. So, cherish every practice, every game and every team dinner (who doesn't like free food?). And trust me, you'll love your team. There's nothing better than a group of girls that will fight for you on and off the field. You'll lose some teammates and gain some new ones along the way, but continue to rely on them. Go out of your way to build strong relationships with them, support them, and play for them. You'll never be among a group of girls working toward the same goal as you will now. Treasure them.
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Oh, and don't let your freshman year slide by. I'm telling you now, as a senior, to step up your first year. Be confident in who you are as a player and as a person. You've worked hard to accomplish your dream of becoming a collegiate soccer player, and now that you've made it, prove your worth. Be the player that the coaches believe you are. Step into your role and be confident.
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Lastly, Liv, have fun! These next four years are going to be some of the best years of your life -- on and off the field. Make mistakes; learn from them; laugh about them; and move on. Grow as a player, but more importantly, grow in your faith. Laugh with your teammates. Cry with your teammates. And celebrate with your teammates. Take plenty of pictures so you can look back and relive every little moment with them. They won't last forever.
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Now, remember: don't be afraid. The last 14 years of practices, ID camps, summer tournaments, and awkward phone calls with college coaches have all led to this. You're ready. These next four years will be a journey -- an exciting one to say the least. So, take confidence that you're not alone. You have your family, friends, and teammates on your side. You got this and remember:
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2 Timothy 1:7: "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline."
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Love,
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Senior Year Liv