---
title: 6 Tips for Sticking With It, Even When You’re Defeated
description: This blog will give you a look into the challenges that come with playing a college sport and the temptations of quitting. Emily will share the Top 6 tips for sticking with it that she learned during her time playing D3 basketball.
---

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# [6 Tips for Sticking With It, Even When You’re Defeated](https://blog.drdishbasketball.com/6-tips-for-sticking-with-it-even-when-youre-defeated)

 Written by [Emily Stiemsma](https://blog.drdishbasketball.com/author/emily-stiemsma) | Aug 8, 2018

A look into the challenges that come with playing Division 3 basketball and the temptations of quitting.  

Have you ever started something and been tempted with the idea of quitting? If the answer is no, I'd ask you to think harder. Just kidding - but I’d definitely be impressed. Let’s chat specifically about quitting and college sports. Players decide to end their career for many reasons. The challenge? Sticking with it even on the days where you are feeling defeated if this is something you really want to do.

I started my freshman year of the basketball season with 6 others. By my senior year, I was the only one left. The next year we brought in 13 freshman and only 4 of them remained three years later.

##### *Why? Because playing a college sport is hard and it can be easy to lose sight of why you started.*

While playing any level of basketball beyond high school is a huge accomplishment, the 3 levels definitely have their differences. I am incredibly grateful for the experience that I had during my 4 years,  but there is no sense is fluffing the reality of playing at the D3 level. Facilities are typically comparable to high school and the travel schedule is less than friendly. PB&J's were a typical pregame meal. Team issued gear needs to be fund-raised for or purchased by you. And you’re lucky if the gym has more than 30 fans in the stands. At the end of my basketball career, I was proud for sticking out the journey myself despite having teammates quit so often over the journey.

##### *Basketball kept me humble, grounded, in shape, and surrounded by a great support system.*

So what do you need to know before you venture into playing D3 basketball or any sport for that matter? These are my tips for sticking it out all your years if you’re committed to doing so.

1. #### Expect to Sacrifice
2. #### Be Patient in Your Role
3. #### Don’t Get Discouraged
4. #### This is Your Last Chance
5. #### Remember Why You Started
6. #### Stay Proud

Sometimes quitting is inevitable or a decision that you must make for the better of your health or family. Although, If the temptation to quit is heavily influenced by someone else, or it’s become an emotional decision - take the time to make sure this is what you want to do and the feelings aren’t temporary. Keep these 6 things in mind as you navigate your way through your college career to remain focused and driven.

[View full post](https://blog.drdishbasketball.com/6-tips-for-sticking-with-it-even-when-youre-defeated)

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