Living the Dream in Keltern: A New Chapter in Germany
In just two weeks of living in Germany, my life has transformed into a whirlwind of diverse roles. I’ve donned the hats of an athlete, chef, nutritionist, chauffeur, mechanic, housekeeper, athletic trainer, and doctor. Let me take you on a journey through my experiences so far.
A Scenic View of Keltern
My bedroom window frames a picturesque scene of the charming town of Keltern, nestled in the heart of Germany. The sight is a blend of lush greenery, with a majestic wine vineyard perched atop a hill. The vibrant blue sky serves as a beautiful backdrop, contrasting notably with the horizon. Cobblestone sidewalks meander throughout the town, lined with quaint stucco houses showcasing the classic red brick roofs that are staples of the region’s architecture.
The Rhythm of Life in Keltern
Life in Keltern is wonderfully slow-paced yet teeming with memories and promise. For those craving variety and excitement, it only takes a short train ride to Pforzheim, a nearby city that throbs with energy and offers a wealth of shopping opportunities.
A Day in the Life of an Overseas Basketball Player
As an overseas basketball player for Rutronik Stars Keltern, I’ve stepped into the role of my own boss. Balancing training, competition, and daily life presents a steep learning curve as I strive to master not only the nuances of basketball but also the dynamics of living in a new country. Typically, my day consists of two rigorous workouts — team practice, strength conditioning, and recovery sessions — all centered around taking care of my body. Proper rest and nutrition become non-negotiable, as does approaching every day with a resilient mindset.
Adjustments to Resource Access
Transitioning from Rice University to Germany has highlighted stark differences in resource availability. One surprising realization is the rarity of ice. Unlike in the U.S., where ice makers and bags of ice are commonplace, I’ve found that ice doesn’t make an appearance in fridges or grocery stores here. To cope with my post-practice recovery needs, I’ve resorted to crafting ice cups each night to soothe my knees and shins.
Gratitude for Athletic Trainers
Shoutout to all athletic trainers out there — your impact is monumental! In the U.S., athletic trainers are essential allies in keeping our bodies in peak condition, equipped with knowledge on injury prevention and rehabilitation methods. After enjoying these resources for four years, I now face the challenge of maintaining my physical and mental well-being professionally without immediate access to such support.
Navigating the Game’s Pace
The pace of play in Germany presents yet another adjustment. Basketball here is intensely physical, more so than I ever experienced back home. A memorable quote from my coach encapsulates this: “We will always border the line of giving a foul. Our team should always have more fouls than the other team.” This ethos echoes throughout our practices, where intensity and aggression reign, and accountability is ever-present.
Embracing a New Culture
Despite the physical strains and resource challenges, none of these hurdles compare to the exhilaration of embracing a new culture. The journey has been enriching, offering experiences many can only dream of. Each day presents a fresh opportunity to learn and grow, crafting a narrative that is distinctly my own.
Dreaming Out Loud
I’m discovering the power of dreaming out loud and the importance of seizing every moment. Here’s to you, my readers, as you pursue your dreams too. Stay tuned for more updates on this incredible adventure!
Malia Fisher is currently competing in the DBBL (Damen-Basketball-Bundesliga), Germany’s top women’s league, as well as the Eurocup, Europe’s second-highest league. You can follow her journey on social media: