Do Sports & Marriage also go together like a “Horse and Carriage”

By Matthew J Free Photos by Matthew Free unless noted

We often look to get into relationships to share and even integrate the aspects of our lives that define us, which can include an athletic endeavor. Do Sports & Marriage also go together like a horse and carriage as the old analogy states? id Magazine caught up with various couples in the community to see how health and fitness is incorporated into their partnerships.

Kelly Lynch & Topher Alford
Together eight months.

Weight train together at Pearl 24HR Fitness, but also play dodge ball and softball respectively.

Kelly says,“Both of us are passionate about the gym and being active in general, so integration and balance have been very easy.We both tend to push each other when at the gym and it making it fun and rewarding. Plus, having something that we both enjoy and to do together definitely strengthens our relationship.”

Matthew Chandler (Netrippers F.C.) & Rich Cassidy (soccer “wife”)
Together six months.

Rich shares,“With our free time, and weather permitting we have enjoyed hiking, bike riding, working out, and swimming together. I have also enjoyed spending time watching Matt at soccer games. I am the one that makes eating healthy and organic foods a big priority providing homemade soups, salads, etc for both of us for a few days each week. He refers to me his nutritionist and I call him in return my personal trainer.”

Matt adds,“dating Rich has allowed me to share the achievements I accomplish in sports with someone I enjoy being with.”

Sarah Ansboury (Tennis) & Brooke Mullett (wife)
Together five years.

Sarah says,“Brooke is my biggest cheerleader. It’s important to me she is there to support me in my matches, whether they be league matches or big tournaments. She doesn’t put boundaries on how often and when I can play, which I have seen in many other relationships.Tennis has become a big part of her life.With that kind of support it really strengthens our relationship.”

Brooke includes,“I’ve always been interested in sports. I was a competitive swimmer growing up, and a cheerleader in high school into college. I also grew up watching ESPN with my dad. I really didn’t know that much about tennis before dating Sarah. It truly is an amazing sport. With Sarah’s enthusiasm, it’s hard to not find a passion for it yourself.”

Sarah and Brooke also admit that the tennis scene does consume quite a bit of their time dealing with travel, competition, proper diet, resting, and injury maintenance. Still it is worth it.

Check out id Magazine Community Blog for more interviews with Portland Metro area athletic couples.