Dr. Danielle Lynch’s Sport Story: Competing with Myself
Name: Dr. Danielle Lynch
Sport: Track & Field
Location: Pennsylvania, USA
Profession: Director of Athletics
Age: 44
Social Media: @coachproflo
I’m a lifelong athlete and use sport to balance my life. I love pushing myself to my limits, feeling strong, and being a role model for others. Likewise, I’m inspired by other women in sport. Although my mother and grandmothers were not able to play organized sports, they did enjoy participation in athletics in school and on their own. My mother signed me up for the Newark Y track team when I was 8 years old, and that’s how I first got involved in sports.
Injury and illness are setbacks that I experienced throughout the journey. The worst day was likely when I tore my meniscus just before the Olympic Trials. Transitioning out of collegiate competition and into everyday life has also been a challenge. Out of college, it’s difficult to find time to train, compete, and be a part of the running community because I work a lot, I have an active family, and I just completed my doctorate.
Despite the challenges, there’s so much that motivates me as an athlete: health, runner's high, fitness, community, engagement, adventure, discovery. One of my best moments as an athlete was when my daughter and I competed in the Colgate Games together. Running is generally very open to everyone and is something that can be done almost anywhere.
My athletic goals have changed over time due to age and responsibilities of life and family. Now, my goal is to train to compete in the world championships for my age group. Success varies for each individual. It can be the completion of a certain distance run or a distance to throw or jump. It can be a specific time, or it can be winning a competition. For me to be successful, I remind myself of my goals and continue to compete with myself.
My athletic body is ever changing. It has fluctuated from firm and lean to round and soft and has brought two children into the world. It has given me so much love.
Athletes come in all shapes and sizes. Competition is healthy and raises the bar for all. Having sports in my life has provided me with a college education, masters, and a doctorate. Sports have allowed me to make friends and do work that I love.
If I could go back in time and speak to my younger self about sports, I would tell her, “Go for it! Don't hesitate. Be bold. Have fun. Enjoy the journey.” And to other girls and women considering participation in sport: “Do what makes you happy when you wake up in the morning. If that is participation in a sport, pursue it.”
Danielle’s story comes to us as part of the Thigh Flasher Series: short stories, anecdotes, and other pieces of wisdom by competitive sportswomen. We’re seeking more participants! Share your sport story and encourage others to share theirs, too.
