My name is Aiden Cruz and as a true freshman, this adventure has been filled with many new emotions. Coming from Gilbert Arizona, the move to The University of Dubuque was a completely new environment, and it felt like stepping into a whole new world. I knew this move would completely change my life, but I completely underestimated how difficult it would be to live 24 hours away from home. This transition has been really hard for me emotionally because it is the first time I have ever been on my own and away from my family. It has been super lonely these past few days, leaving all my friends, teammates, and family behind in Arizona, and it has been difficult because I am still getting to know all my teammates as I adjust to this new environment. Alongside the emotional challenges, physically this transition into college football has been a lot on my body. The new training and conditioning alongside the early morning wake-up calls have been taxing. These challenges have caused me to overthink a lot and have caused me to wonder if I was making the right decision. But throughout this process and this new journey I have already learned so much. I have learned how to trust myself and trust my instincts but also to rely on my teammates when I am feeling down and that I am not alone and I have people that care for me. I have also learned the importance of taking care of my body and my mind because when one goes, the other follows. So, I will remain to stay committed, trust in my faith, and take care of myself both physically and emotionally through my college journey.
