Written by Kelly Mahawanniarachchi// Photo by Jeff Montgomery
The transition from high school to college is a monumental one for most students, but for those who are athletes, the change can be even more challenging. The first year of college sports is an exciting, yet sometimes overwhelming, journey filled with new experiences, unexpected hurdles and the steep learning curve of balancing academics with intense athletic commitments.
One of the biggest challenges for freshman athletes is adjusting to the intensity of college athletics.
Freshman soccer player Nora Henderson commented on the transition.
“It’s really cool to see the skill level change from high school to college because in college you’re with a bunch of amazing talented people who all love and care about the sport that you do and are on that team for a reason,” Henderson said. “Balancing academic life and sports was definitely a big transition too because both require more time in college. It took a little bit to get used to first semester but now I have a good routine where I prioritize school right after my practice so that I have it done the next day.”
Freshman athletes often face the challenge of earning their place on the team. Unlike high school, where they were the stars, many freshmen must fight for playing time and prove themselves worthy of their position.
Junior softball player Riley Price commented on her freshman experience.
“I started my college career at a different university and had a completely different environment than what I am around now,” Price said. “I had always played softball and knew the expectations for that sport, yet going to the college that I did, it was a completely different game. Reflecting back on it now, I am grateful for the lessons I learned that first year since it made me into the person I am today.”
For many freshman athletes, the hardest part is finding balance. Learning time management and coping with the constant pressure to excel both academically and athletically can be overwhelming for freshmen.
Freshman basketball player Amelia Rogers commented on how she’s found the balance between academics and athletics.
“Balancing academic life and athletic life was difficult for me in the first semester because I didn’t have the community I have today in my classes,” Rogers said. “I think the biggest thing about balancing both is communication, whether with my coaches, professors, or even classmates. I can communicate with them if I miss class or with my coaches about the practice timing and when we will have time to take tests. I talk with my classmates about content and material I may miss, which is why the second semester has been easier for balancing because I do have that community of people surrounding me, and I know I can reach out for that support.”
