Expecting Greatness
By: Carol Torok, Assistant Volleyball Coach, University of Arkansas Orginally Published in Coaching Volleyball Magazine - AVCA
Being pregnant during season was great! All my cravings were fulfilled: from buffet for breakfast (right up my alley) to dessert for dinner ("I am having a craving!"). On a serious note, I had great role models like my mother, my high school coach Natalie Cook and my college coaches Laurie Corbelli and Genny Volpe, all coaches and moms that are very successful at both careers. I think there are a few key things to consider when you are thinking about starting a family. First thing to think about is your support system. I have an amazing husband who supports me and my career. I couldn't coach without him. We are lucky to have both sets of grandparents retired and itching to help. Also, my boss has been supportive from the planning, to the pregnancy, to maternity leave. Second, one of the hardest things about being pregnant is planning. I think it's important to have a plan. Whether you are trying to start a family or you are blessed with a surprise, make a plan! I tried to plan my pregnancy according to the season. Now, we all know that the best-laid plans don't always work, so be flexible. Third, and probably more difficult than you think, is communication. The competitor in me prepared for tough times and uncomfortable situations, but it also instilled in me to never quit. There comes a point when you just can't do what you are used to and you have to slow down. You're the only one that knows that point and you can't be afraid to communicate that. Along those lines, here is an outline of some things that I tried to follow to make my transition easier:
Lastly, stay calm and enjoy the experience. Sure, there were days that practice seemed to be five hours long because my ankles were swollen, my back was sore and sleeping at night was rare, but I felt empowered by my players! They came in day after day and worked, and I wasn't going to let them down. They can read me like a book, so I just enjoyed the experience and they did too. Being a mom and having a career is possible. It's not always easy, but if you want it bad enough, you can do it. Showing that to my players was one of the greatest things about being pregnant.
We welcome YOUR input! If you have any comments on this article or ideas for another topic, please contact our subcommittee. We are always looking for fresh ideas and ways to better serve the development of our fellow assistant coaches in all levels and types of volleyball. Send your feedback to: EHammond@Towson.edu
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