McCluer North quarterback Jordan Primm (footballer) is trying to get away from a Parkway West defender during the Suburban Conference Green Pool game in Florissant earlier this season. (Photo by Mike Buehler)
Over the last two years, I have spoken a lot in this area. But during the pandemic, and watching my grandmother decline and eventually die, the struggle to maintain my mental health seems to be a common topic.
Today I want to talk about how taking back one of my outlets has been great medicine for my mental health.
First, we need an outlet. Whether it’s a hobby, a road trip, or spending time with family and friends, we all need something that gives us something to enjoy.
For me, and for many of us, those outlets have been curtailed over the past two and a half years.
That’s why the last few weeks have been especially fun for me.
Sure, football photography is a little different than it used to be. With a bad knee and other mobility issues, he’s sitting behind the zone taking pictures, not while walking around the sidelines. Also, I usually work Friday nights at the Daily American Republic’s Sports Desk, so I mostly shoot games on Saturdays. Most area high school soccer teams don’t play on Saturdays, so I usually drive to North St. Louis County where Saturday high school soccer is a long-standing tradition.
am i complaining? Not at all.
First off, driving on the interstate can be a little nerve-wracking at times, but I love driving. It gives you a chance to think, clear your head, listen to sports talk on the radio, listen to good music like Gaither Vocal Band or Iron Maiden.
Second, schools in North County (as many locals call North St. Louis County) have many traditions. Spanish Lake’s Hazelwood East High has won three state titles in football. McCluer North has made four appearances in the state championship game. Riverview Gardens is my father’s alma mater and has state titles on his resume.
Third, I have been treated wonderfully by the coaches, staff and fans in the games. Even better, I think I made some new friends along the way. that’s always a good thing.
Last but not least, it gave me a chance to do something I really enjoy doing. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is extremely rare, it has affected my mental health in the same way spinach does to Popeye. often exhausts and hurts me. But it’s worth it.
Finally, after two and a half years of misery, it’s great to be able to do what I love again.
Mike Buhler is a staff writer for the Daily American Republic. Please contact [email protected].
