The Story of TAL.

As a recent graduate student, I've seen a lot of numbers and a lot of research. Growing up as social media 'grew up,' and not having it instantly in my hands, it actually opened my eyes even wider to the perspectives and lifestyles of older vs. younger individuals of sport than research alone ever could. 

Think about it... 20 years ago TikTok wasn't a thought, now you have kids thrown into blogging lifestyles of mom and dad, and boom-- that's their normal. Another example: it would be quite unusual for 80-year-old Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys, to think a Tiktok dance in the middle of practice wouldn't be a little odd. Older coaches, and even parents, have their 'knock on the door and ask to play' perspective growing up. While today's young athletes have a completely alternate view. 

But it's simple: That's just the way they grew up. 

I was smack in the middle of 'knock on the door and ask to play' and 'did you see the new iPhone 4 came out?' era. I think the understanding of each type of generation plays a huge roll in everyone's ability to take the next step. We're all so worried about who's with who, who's watching what, what will they think, and then we forget the love and passion behind why we do what we do. 

Behind every account and each post, there is a little, teeny, tiny athlete who picked up whatever ball or sport, and knew that was it. Pretty sure there isn't any research on that feeling, cause IFYKYK. Which is why I wanted to create an outlet for athletes to start off slow, work into the swing of things, and not feel pressured. All while making it as simple as texting your friend.