Guest Post: Heidi Liou

Guest Post: Heidi Liou // @number1mitchfan  

____________________

Unique sports. Specifically the sport of synchronized swimming. This past summer Olympics was definitely a special one to focus on synchronized swimming. The costuming/suit designs got better, swimmers got stronger, the teams were more unified. I am part of a synchronized swimming team and have been for the past 12 years. I practice more than 20 hours a week so that in the end, our team can be perfectly synchronized as we can. The physical training is extremely intense, but it feels so good to push myself to the limit. A new person is unleashed when I swim. Connecting to an audience through artistic movements is one of the greatest feelings in the sport of synchronized swimming. I love synchro because it has made me who I am. Without it, I wouldn’t know what it means to overcome an obstacle that I never even believed I could do; what it means to be successful; what it means to become so closely bonded with someone that they become family; what it means to do what I love. It teaches me to cooperate with others under all circumstances and mentally fight through my own struggles. People who are proud of something unique, is what inspires me.

Guest Post: Jamey Erickson

Guest Post: Jamey Erickson // @JameyErickson

____________________

It may seem incredibly timely and cliche, but its a message that we literally saw pay off last night. There are no shortcuts in life, there are no easy answers. Hard work, determination and passion are what make the difference in the long run. I know this isn't a fancy piece of design, a lovely piece of furniture, but I think its something we can all relate to, sports fan or not. These guys came a long way, no one thought they could do it, but they believed in themselves and stayed true to who they are and in the end... well, they're the NBA Champions.

Guest Post: Katie Miller

Guest Post: Katie Miller // @KatieMillerMN

____________________

Many people have probably heard the story about college softball player Sara Tucholsky who hit her first homerun ever but collapsed from a knee injury at first. While the rules stated that her own team could not run for her or carry her, two players from the opposing team walked over and carried Sara around the bases. While Sara's career ended that day, her story has brought inspiration to many and proof that chivalry is not dead. Even if you have heard or watched this story numerous times, the compassion, sportsmanship and courage that these players demonstrated is an important reminder of the positive impact we can have on other's lives.