As a single mom AT you have to make a lot of sacrifices. Dr. Erin Hassler has gathered a few friends to share their stories.

Dr. Hassler, start us off with your story of getting into AT.

Went to school in Atlanta and always playing some sort of sport.

When I got to college I put the two together.

The 1996 Atlanta Olympics

Currently a teacher

Own SportzFactory

Own a non-profit

Work with Olympic Track and field

Teach adjunct online

Paula -

20 years out of college and 28 years in AT world

I started as an aide at 13 years old

I hated PE and tried to find my way out of it.

As a cheerleader, I jumped down the stairs and had to visit 

First 5 years I was at a private school and then after school stuff

After that I became the sports performance coordinator.

I loved being part of the team and celebrating and getting better.

It was neat as a high school student to understand the psychological pressures

Chakaia -

Athlete with a lot injuries

My high school AT taught me a lot 

Tennessee state for undergrad

Fell in love, got engaged, had a baby, we split and went our separate ways

I knew it was time for me to complete my schooling.

Te Shondra -

Born and raised in Florida and I was into sports.

A close family friend was the AT and she became my ride to and from school.

I was active but always found a way to help in with AT.

Went to school in South Carolina

Was married for about 7 years and moved back to Florida.

About year 7 or 8 we were pregnant and about that time he bailed

I did not make the adjustment until my daughter was at an age where she needed more hands-on for competitive practices.

When did the kid(s) come into the picture?

Tell me about your Tribe:

Co-workers that all started at the same time and were in similar situations.

These are the emergency contacts for my daughter

Now I have my “mommy squad” that I have met through my daughter.

Being willing to pick up and drop off your friend’s kids and it is reciprocal.

You need someone to celebrate and sorrow with.

Dr. Hassler - I do not call myself a single mom

I do not label myself as a single mom so that it does not look like I am missing a piece.

“You do not need to try to make up for someone else”

K - I am a thinker and a planner.  I will manage my emotions, but sometimes that is at the end or the process.

I have to let someone else help me

Advice for K

Let your story show your passion and desire

Build your network now

Reach out to everyone you know.

Know the presence the ATs have in the area.