My name is Angelina Vasquez and I am a member of the UNLV Track Team. From a young age, I knew I wanted to run. My dad introduced me to running and was my coach through high school, something I am forever grateful for. He taught me trust and resilience even on the hard days. Track was my passion, and I dreamed of competing at the highest level. My journey as an athlete has been a rollercoaster ride, full of ups and downs, victories and defeats, and moments of self-discovery. But through it all, I’ve learned the importance of mental health, the value of finding the right fit, and the power of resilience.
Growing up, I always felt the pressure to succeed. In my small town of Barstow, California, it was a big deal for someone to go Division I in athletics. When I committed to USC, it felt like the whole town was watching and expecting me to put Barstow on the map. That pressure weighed heavily on me, especially in my senior year of high school. I started to see myself as just “USC,” rather than as a human with athletic dreams and aspirations. The expectations became overwhelming, and I began to lose sight of who I really was.
Upon arriving at USC, I was excited for a fresh start. But freshman year brought on a few challenges. The increased mileage and intense training took a toll on my body, leading to injuries that never seemed to go away. I felt trapped in a cycle of pain and frustration, struggling to find my place on the team. Despite having a supportive coach and teammates, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. The workouts didn’t align with my strengths, and I started to question my love for the sport. I felt like I was in a never-ending battle, trying to prove myself and find my identity.
As the seasons went by, my mental health deteriorated. I found myself in a dark place, questioning my worth as an athlete and as a person. I was constantly comparing myself to others, feeling like I was never good enough. It was a lonely and isolating experience, and I knew that I needed a change. After reflecting, I made the difficult decision to enter the transfer portal. It was a leap of faith, a chance to find a school that would be a better fit for me. I knew I had to prioritize my mental well-being and find an environment where I could thrive, both on and off the track.
Transferring to UNLV was the best decision I ever made. From the moment I stepped on campus, I felt a sense of peace and belonging. The coaches and teammates embraced me with open arms, creating a supportive and encouraging environment. I trusted I found an environment and coaches who believed in me and pushed me to be the best version of myself. It will be a complete reset, a chance to start fresh and rediscover my love for the sport when I officially start this new chapter.
Through my journey, I’ve learned the importance of balance and self-care. As athletes, we often put so much pressure on ourselves to perform at our best, but it’s crucial to prioritize our mental health as well. I started journaling and reflecting on my emotions, understanding what was causing my stress and anxiety. By practicing gratitude, sitting with God and focusing on the positive aspects of my life, I was able to find joy in the little things and appreciate the journey.
I also realized the importance of having a strong support system. My family, friends, faith, and coaches have been there for me every step of the way, offering encouragement and guidance when I needed it most. They reminded me that I’m more than just an athlete; I’m a person with dreams, goals and a bright future ahead.
As I continue my journey at UNLV, I’m excited for what the future holds. I have big aspirations and goals, but I also know that my worth isn’t defined by my accomplishments. I’m more than just a runner; I’m a daughter, a friend and a student. I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned along the way and the growth I’ve experienced as both an athlete and a person. I’m ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come my way, knowing that I have the support and resilience to overcome anything. I hope that my story inspires others to prioritize their mental health and find the courage to make changes when needed.
Remember, we’re more than just athletes; we’re all individuals with unique stories and journeys.
