Personal Narrative: The Oak Ridge Otters

As a child, I was outgoing and talkative, but in 4th grade, I became more self-conscious and shy. That summer, I signed up for The Oak Ridge Otters Summer Swim Team. I was nervous to join because I knew no one. It felt like everyone was judging me for being the new member. A group of teens, maybe in middle school at the time, noticed that I looked lonely and called me over. They talked to me and introduced kids my age. They made me feel less nervous and excited to continue to swim. This was the first team that showed sports wasn’t about the sport itself, but also growing friendship and memories. The middle schoolers also taught me to include others and not to ignore someone for being aloof.
I had never been a fan of sports but was always
I always thought back to when I did not know anyone on the Otters. I did not want anyone to feel that way on the team I was representing. Everyone should always feel like they have a family on their team. Whenever I saw a freshman or new student sitting alone, I would invite them over to hang out. The best thing was seeing how grateful they were and hearing them say “I was so scared to be here, thank you for letting me hang out”. It felt good to help a kid overcome their nerves and make new friends. And hopefully, they will remember what I did for them and want to do the same for the freshmen next year.
If I had not joined The Otters and met those middle schoolers, I probably would still be shy and closed off to people. I grew up gaining confidence and not worrying about what people thought of me. Sure, as a teenager, doubtful moments always occurred, but that is common in teens. I never tried to change who I was or close myself off because of my doubts. The team also taught me no one deserves to be ignored. To stand up. Talk to someone when nobody else wants to. Swimming has made me who I am. Strong, confident, and