Welcome to Behind the G! This is a Georgia Way platform that shares student-athlete stories, hobbies, and what is important to them. To the world, student-athletes are viewed by their outcomes in their sports, but they are so much more than that. Our goal is to share with the world in their own words who they are as people, and the numerous ways they represent the G on and off the field.
Hey buddy,
Did you have a good practice? I know whatever season it is right now that you had practice or a game tonight. I bet you did really well, and mom and dad are extremely proud of you. How loud was Grammi yelling at the referees? What about Grandad? Has he got thrown out of the ballpark lately for an umpire making a bad call? You’re probably really embarrassed, but just know they love you and they would never let anyone get the best of their grandbaby. Appreciate them every chance you get and tell them how much you love them and how much they mean to you because one day you won’t be able to do that anymore.
Keep up the hard work because one day it will all pay off. You are going to be living out your greatest dream one day of being an athlete at the greatest school in the world. Will you be playing football, basketball or baseball? I’ll let you figure out what sport it might be when you get a little older! 😉 Maybe your middle school PE teacher will encourage you to try out a new sport that you will have a little more success. Can you imagine having a busier schedule? Just wait until 9th grade when you are trying to get adjusted to being in high school and taking harder classes and you are playing 4 sports. It’s going to be tough, but you will get through it.
Have fun and cherish the moments you have with your friends and family. Life is more about the quality of your character than the grades that you get in school. You’re a smart kid and can get through school easier than you think. Build relationships that will last a lifetime. Put down your iPad and get outside and play. Stay up all night and play Xbox with your friends because when y’all go to different colleges, you won’t have the same connections. Love endlessly and live your life with no regrets. God has a path for your life and is in control of every little thing. Continue to chase your dreams and listen to your momma because she is always right! Your future can be as big as you dream.
Go Dawgs,
Clay Pender – UGA Men’s Track & Field
