Missing the 2020 Season: A Bigger Picture
Story through my lens:
After the 2019 CF Open and Masters Qualifier, I was mentally and physically exhausted due in part to the inability to recover. At the time I was dealing with a serious gut issue and an injury to the shoulder that occurred during the qualifier.
On our monthly consultation after the masters qualifier, Carl and I began the discussion of the CF Open's new schedule and the time line needed to repair, rehab and heal. We both agreed that it was too short of time required to allow the body the time it needed to heal. Therefore, we decided to forgo the 2020 CF Open and focus on the physical opportunities that were present and numerous other goals.
How did it feel when he advised you to take the year off?
It took some time to digest and accept the idea that I wouldn't be competing in 2020. I attribute this to my competitive nature along with participating in this sport since 2010: Sectionals in 2010, CF Open 2011-2014, 2015 (injury), 2016-2019, Masters Qualifier 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019, Games 2014 and numerous regional/local competitions. However, after the decision was made, there was a sense of relief knowing that I was on the right path with a greater plan being built for success.
"..we have a plan, and missing 2020 season is part of that bigger picture.."
Whats it like missing the OPEN as an athlete looking to compete?
Our latest consult was the day after 20.1 was released and we happened to discuss my feelings about not participating. Honestly, it's different sitting on the sidelines watching everyone else put up scores. I had to reflect back to the days as an athletic trainer, working with hundreds of injured athletes that were sidelined and consoling them with words of encouragement. I took a page out of that book, and applied it which has eased my mind. I know we have a plan, and missing 2020 season is part of that bigger picture.
The Silver lining as I watch from the sidelines is the reduced stress surrounding the Open this year, allowing me to redirect more of my attention to my clients and focus on business goals.
- Dennis
