The next level of paintball……
It’s always scary and exciting to start something new, but the crazy part about it is the unknown of what it can evolve to. I started playing paintball in the neighborhood lots when I was 16 years old, and fast forward 2 decades later I’m still playing. The best part is what has happened between those years because of paintball. From playing in the woods for fun or competing on the national level and getting hardware on a podium and holding a “Happy Gilmore” check you’re your boys, there’s no better feeling.
The same guys I was playing with back then are still my best friends to this day, and we thrive on that friendship. We’ve been there for the ups and downs of life and have been the groomsman by eachother side for our wedding and god parents to our kids. It’s a crazy whirlwind to think that a cheap paintball marker from Walmart lead to a complete addication that shaped my life.
The friendships you make from a high adrenaline impact sport are the bonds that will never be broken. Getting your friends together to create a strategy and see it in action and accomplishing is what life is all about, and that’s something I learned in paintball.
As being as seasoned as I am with the sport, I still play competitively but like most of us washed up salty vets, we turn to coaching as well.
The first thing I tell anyone who wants to play paintball, go get hit by the ball to get that “fear of being shot” out of the way. You’ll realize it isn’t that bad and then it’s even more fun when you are able to play back against the other team.
The crazy part with paintball, you just have to try it and you get hooked immediately. Once the paintball bug has bit ya, you will start investing to make the sport even more fun and exciting.
Getting matching jerseys and then customizing your own gear for your personal style really helps you connect with the sport but also stand out in your own way.
If you’ve ever thought about playing but haven’t “pulled the trigger” give it a shot. Head to your local field, chat with the staff, get a rental setup and head out on the field.
Once you are ready to get your own gear, Dye paintball markers are the best and most innovative (granted the other platforms are solid too), JT proflex masks are the most customizable in the game and their soft products are top notch. Other soft goods that have great quality and material would be from Hormesis.
Life is supposed to be fun and paintball can make that a reality. You never know what you might like until you try it and my son is chomping at the bit to get on the field with me (just waiting for him to hit the age he’s allowed to.) So if you’ve ever thought about trying something new go for it, and if it’s paintball that’s sparked your interest I hope this helps get you out there.
