The End of an Era... Mnt Biking

 It's been an amazing adventure for our family as Ella competed for 6 years with the mnt bike team at her schools.  The friends and people she has met are unforgettable.  They have shaped her into who she is now.  

Ella wrote this essay, which won her a 1,000$ scholarship for college.  I am proud of her for all the hard work.  Darren has been an incredible coach and Dad, and a support through all.  He was also recognized as an outstanding ride leader.  He is loved by so many on the team. 

Chargers rise to the challenge when we fall and rise by lifting others. These principles are at the core of our team values. Describe the ways you have been able to rise and help others rise this year as a CCHS team member

Halfway through my senior year, I started to feel exhaustion and burnout. The constant pressure to do well in mountain biking started to take a toll on me. I mentally checked out, and I didn't enjoy riding my bike like I used to. After a while of feeling this way, I decided that my mindset needed to change, not just for me but for the people around me. It was my last season, and I wanted to enjoy it. Instead of focusing on the negatives, I decided to focus on the positives. I was often reminded that I was fortunate to be part of such an amazing team with people who supported and pushed each other to become better. Once I changed my mindset, I noticed how much having a good attitude can influence others around me. I made an effort each practice to talk to all the girls in my group, as well as others outside my group. By focusing on lifting others, I found myself rising too. It helped me to remember why I started mountain biking in the first place, because of the community and the love of the sport. The team has taught me that success isn't about what place you finish but rather the relationships you make and the memories you create along the way.