Fuel, Focus, and the Finish: What Sports Have Taught Me About Life

By Areli Kesser, Vice President of LYBA
U.S. National Water Polo Champion | 10th Grade | Cathedral Catholic High School

In the pool, every second counts. In water polo, you're not just swimming—you're strategizing, reacting, and pushing through pain all at once. I’ve learned that the sport isn’t just about goals and defense; it’s about who you become when no one is watching. And that's where the real growth begins.

Being a student-athlete at a high level means managing early mornings, late-night homework, tough losses, and small victories. I’ve played in championship matches and heard the national anthem before jumping into the water for Team USA. But some of my most defining moments have come from practices where everything went wrong—and I had to show up again the next day anyway.

Sports have taught me discipline, not the kind that comes from being told what to do, but the kind that builds from within. You get up earlier than you want, repeat drills you’re sick of, and still give your best when you're tired. That discipline doesn’t stay in the pool—it follows you into school, family, and everything else in life.

I've also learned that leadership doesn't always look like shouting plays or scoring the most goals. Sometimes, it's encouraging a teammate who’s struggling or being the one who takes responsibility after a loss. True leadership in sports—and in life—is about consistency, humility, and heart.

Another lesson? Respect. Water polo is aggressive. You learn to play hard but fair, to challenge opponents without losing your integrity. That balance—between competitive fire and controlled grace—is something I’m still learning every day. It’s also something I see echoed in the etiquette and communication training I’ve done through LLUXXALL.

As I look ahead to a future in finance, I know that the mental toughness, focus, and communication I’ve built through sport will stay with me. Whether I’m in a business negotiation, leading a team, or just facing everyday challenges, I’ll carry the values of the sport with me—focus, respect, resilience, and the quiet confidence that comes from knowing you’ve put in the work.

Because at the end of the day, sports aren’t just about winning. They’re about becoming the kind of person who’s ready for whatever comes next.