When I was 4, my parents sent me to a tennis coach. I was tiny and the racket I held was just my size. I absolutely adored playing the sport. I vividly recall my very first "match" back then, dressed in a tiny pink skirt and a white collared t-shirt. I had the attitude of a future Grand Slam champion, all while my dad cheered me on enthusiastically, even though it was more like a friendly rally against my coach than a real match. He captured a blurry picture of that moment with his old Blackberry, but the image remains crystal clear in my mind. At that point, I had no real grasp of the rules; I just played with an overly serious expression and an abundance of innocence. I continued playing tennis for five years but had to pause when my school didn't offer individual sports. Fast forward to the present day, and my former coach now visits our community tennis court to teach. I find myself playing with him often, reliving those cherished old memories. I must admit, I've still got that old touch and wear the same cute, determined expression on my face.

Until now, my parents had made most of my life decisions. However, switching from basketball to football was a personal choice driven by my desire for uniqueness at the age of nine. Despite my school not offering girls' football, I formed my own team by persuading fellow girls, ultimately compelling the school to let us play. I participated in numerous competitions, including inter-school, intercity, and interstate tournaments. The government even extended an offer to join their sports academy. Football has been a significant life achievement, shaping me as a person. Starting from scratch, I eventually made it to the national level. Stepping onto the field felt like entering a different dimension, and I was known for my dramatic style of play. Grateful for this opportunity, I relished every moment on the football field.

In the last two years of my school, I couldn't keep up with physical activities and sports, so I decided to make up for it once school ended. I began going to BOX XI, a strength and conditioning center near my house. I've been thoroughly enjoying it and intend to continue this form of physical activity, alongside sports if possible. Since starting my workout regimen, I've experienced a significant improvement in my overall well-being. I feel stronger, and it has naturally led me to make positive changes in my eating habits and lifestyle. I've become more attentive to my diet and sleep patterns. I now work out five days a week, and my day doesn't feel complete until I've finished my gym session. I strive for consistency and rarely miss a day. I even find a certain satisfaction in the sweet pain that tough exercises bring the next morning – it's a tangible sign of my efforts and motivates me to work even harder for myself. It has become a form of self-care, complementing my love for sports, though it can't quite replace the joy I find in playing sports.