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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (2/9/26)

"Promoting Education Based Athletics in Indiana"

One of the big stories out of the Winter Olympics was the comeback attempt of American alpine ski racer Lindsey Vonn.  Vonn, who retired in 2019, was attempting a comeback at age 41, a very tough challenge.

Knowing the long odds to get back to the top level, Vonn's mantra was saying that "pressure is a privilege." (This mantra was first used by tennis great Billie Jean King years ago.)

Vonn's track record was tremendous.  She won gold in the 2010 Winter Olympics, the first ever for an American along with 20 World Cup titles in the last 15 years.

Needless to say, the comeback never materialized.  Vonn was injured (torn ACL) ten days before while training, then spent the time left rehabilitating and was determined to give it one more go.  It all ended with another spill shortly into her first race.  All hope of a successful comeback came to an end.  

This story is about the journey, not the result.  As a student-athlete, you will feel the pressure of a close game, match or meet.  Vonn responds to pressure by leaning into the challenge, which drives her.  Representing your school on an athletic team is a privilege.  Be proud of your effort and accomplishments, and in those pressure-filled moments, don't allow the pressure to make you doubt yourself! 

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