That summer, I practiced two hours a day, every day. I couldn't believe how good I got, and how fast it happened. In the fall of sophomore year, I got in to jazz band, and junior and senior year played first chair... then made all-county and all-state, twice.
Not only did I find out how much I could accomplish by practicing, I began to figure out how to practice.
A few years later, I figured out that you can practice anything and get better at it than you ever thought you could be.
All because I failed to get into jazz band as a freshman in high school. It was the first thing I ever auditioned for and didn't get into.
One of the most important things I ever learned. One of the most important things that ever happened in my life.
Tom, I have the same opinion, also learned from music...practice will accomplish almost everything.
When I hear someone say, “I would give anything to be able to play like that!” I say, “then why did you not put in the years of practice and study it takes?”.
Good for you!! I had one or two good seasons in baseball. I rode the bench alot of the other years. Had a condition called lazy muscle syndrome. Would kind of come and go and when it came legs would just get SO weak. But the two good years were lots of fun!!!
Later on I got Fast and did the mile in close to 5. Really built upper body and could bench 350.
Now that’s my weight lol I’m doomed
Funny how many people miss that lesson. My dad was my coach and I worked my butt off. I have a few memories of almost passing out from running so hard.
Track is a pretty cut and dry sport-you beat team mates and you are on the relay. I once ran off to make a relay that I didn’t normally run (4x400) and made the team. Had the 5th place girl (a friend of mine) crying in the locker room and saying, “Just because your dad is the coach and you beat me...you got on the team.” Most of my teammates agreed with her. Good grief.
One time.....at band camp..............
Same this with me shooting archery. Every day rain or shine.
I set up a target in the back yard. When the weather was crappy I went to the indoor range.
Regionals, States, and Nationals, lot of hard work but it payed off.