Incoming Senior August. Navigating the Path to College Sports: A Senior Athlete’s Guide
Congratulations on making it through three long, but memorable years of balancing academics and athletics. As you enter into your senior year, you’re probably filled with excitement, anticipation, and maybe even a little bit of anxiety. It’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work! August is an important month for you as you prepare for your final year of high school. In this blog post, we have put together a checklist of tasks that you, as a high school student-athlete, should complete during the month of August to be ahead in the college recruitment game. We will begin with exploring your options, understanding the risks associated with a “walk-on” attitude, and wrapping up with getting some much-needed rest.
Explore Your Options
As summer comes to an end, it’s time to explore your recruiting options in-depth. You may have already received some interest from college coaches, but if not, now is the time to take the initiative and put yourself out there. Be proactive and reach out to coaches to express your interest in their program. Make sure to have an updated resume or athletic profile, including any relevant performance metrics such as your SAT scores, GPA, and athletic achievements. Reach out to your high school coach for guidance on how to best present yourself to college recruiters. And during the process, conduct candid self-reflection about where you want to play, versus where you may or may not be able to play.
Understand the Risks
Yes, being a “walk-on” is a noble pursuit, but one should understand the risks involved. In most cases, a walk-on spot is not guaranteed, and one must compete with other athletes for a position on the team. If your heart is set on playing for a particular school, it’s essential to have a “Plan B” in case you do not make the team. Keep all options open and make the final decision that is best fit for you academically. Remember, your playing days will end at some point, but your college degree is a valuable asset that never expires.
Enjoy Your Final Summer
As a high school student-athlete, you have worked hard for three years balancing academics and athletics. The final summer before your senior year is your time to recharge before the new school year begins. Enjoy some much-needed rest, but also stay active and make sure to maintain your physical fitness. Participate in a summer team camp or work with a coach to refine your skills. Maintaining an active lifestyle will help you return to school energized and ready to take on the challenges of senior year.
Take Initiative
As a high school student-athlete, you need to take the initiative to stand out to college recruiters. Besides reaching out to coaches, make sure to attend camps and clinics hosted by the colleges or universities that interest you. Network with other athletes and coaches and stay engaged with your high school athletic community. Create social media accounts where you can showcase your athletic abilities and share your achievements with potential recruiters. During the recruitment process, always prioritize your academic performance and maintain communication with college coaches thoroughly.
Conclusion:
During the month of August, high school student-athletes should focus on exploring their options, understanding the risks of a “walk-on” attitude, enjoying their last summer before senior year, and taking the initiative to set themselves apart during the recruitment process. Being proactive and putting in the work now will ensure you are ahead of the game and have the greatest chance of achieving your goals as a student-athlete. Remember, always prioritize your academics as well, because your college degree is an investment in your future that will last a lifetime.