Some american sign language signs are said to be translucent because

Cause, they are very obvious sign like signing "DRINKING" is just putting a "C" in ASL up to your mouth like your drinking from a imaginary cup of water. Even if you don't know ASL you would know that oh that sign means he/she is drinking water.

i would tell them that you admire their sports skills and you hope to become a talented player like them one day

explanation:

since you're new to the sport you could ask them if they have any pointers to you succeed at the sport. you could even ask them if you could practice together sometime.