Junior November. Navigating the Path to College Sports: A Junior Athlete’s Guide
Welcome to November! It’s an exciting time of year for high school student-athletes as they navigate their way through junior year. This month is crucial for student-athletes who have their sights set on playing sports in college. It’s a time to focus on academic and athletic responsibilities, as well as college recruiting. With that in mind, we’ve created a guide for high school student-athletes on the tasks they should be doing during November to stay on track.
Follow Your Top College Programs On Social Media:
Social media can be a powerful tool for student-athletes looking to gain college coaches’ attention. It’s essential to stay engaged on platforms like Twitter and Instagram as it gives you some insight into the team dynamics, lets you stay updated on their achievements and performances, and the chance to showcase your genuine interest. Therefore, be sure to follow all the colleges and team programs for the schools that you wish to attend. It’s always good to have a pre-prepared remark to impress the college coaches, so stay informed and updated!
Keep Your Grades Up:
As a student-athlete, you are expected to maintain good academic standing while keeping up with your athletic responsibilities. During the Fall season when tournaments, games, and practices become increasingly frequent, it can be easy to lose sight of academics. But remember, your grades will matter to college coaches. A high GPA can offset an average performance on test scores. So, work on time management, prioritize deadlines, and seek help if needed. Besides, make sure you meet the NCAA academic eligibility requirements.
Plan College Visits:
Fall is an excellent time for college visits. The visits provide valuable face-time with college coaches, let you meet potential teammates, and tour the campus and athletic facilities. You can also explore virtual tours to get a feel for the campuses in which you are interested. This visit will also allow you to experience the college environment and know whether you’ll fit in or not.
Continue Working On Your Game:
As a student-athlete, your performance is essential when it comes to catching the attention of college coaches. You can continue to work on your skills by playing games, hitting the gym, or following a strength and conditioning program. Focus on identifying your weaknesses and work tirelessly on improving them. The skill you show on the field, both physically and mentally, could make all the difference in being recruited by your dream college.
Meet With Your Guidance Counselor:
It’s always good to meet with your guidance counselor during November, especially if you are considering attending college. Your guidance counselor can discuss which colleges are suitable for you academically, how to handle applications, and provide any support you need. Make sure to utilize their expertise to help guide you to a flourishing future.
Conclusion:
November is a critical month for high school student-athletes, and there is much to do. From keeping your grades up to working on your game and getting in touch with your top college choices, it’s a time to focus on both academics and college recruiting. Stay focused, seek help when needed, and make the necessary strides to prepare yourself for the next big move in your journey as a student-athlete. Remember, good things come to those who work hard, so embrace this November, and take control of your future.