Spring is a season of celebration and transition for high school seniors—especially student-athletes preparing to take the leap into college athletics. While many are wrapping up their final high school seasons, questions about what it really takes to succeed at the next level are at the top of mind.
As a former college athlete, I’ve been in those shoes, and every year I get asked the same few questions by athletes (and their parents) who are gearing up for the transition. Here are the three most common—and honest—answers I give:
1. What’s the hardest part about transitioning to college athletics?
Without a doubt: time management.
In college, you’re expected to perform at your highest level athletically and academically. Practices are longer. Strength training is tougher. Film sessions, meetings, and travel can take up a huge chunk of your week.
What catches most freshman athletes off guard is just how much responsibility they have. Many struggle to stay on top of their classes—some even lose eligibility by failing early on. Balancing athletics and academics is a skill you need to develop before you arrive on campus.
2. What helped you most in preparing for the jump to college sports?
Two things: strength training and mental preparation.
Strength training at the college level is no joke. It’s more intense, more frequent, and more physically demanding than what most high school athletes are used to. If your body isn’t ready, you’ll struggle. Training consistently—and with proper form under the guidance of a qualified strength coach—is one of the best ways to prepare.
Equally important is your mindset. College athletes are often older, stronger, and far more experienced. Even if you’re a top recruit, your teammates and opponents will challenge you from day one. The key is to approach every practice with humility, work ethic, and a desire to learn. At this level, every player is competing for a starting spot. Coaches recruit athletes who have the potential to outperform those already on the team.
3. What do you wish you knew before stepping into college athletics?
I wish I had known how to think like a high-level athlete.
It’s not just about showing up to practice and doing what your coach tells you. It’s about breaking down your performance, identifying your weaknesses, and showing up the next day ready to improve. College athletes don’t wait for coaches to fix everything—they take ownership of their growth.
Four years goes by fast. To truly succeed, every practice should be intentional. Treat each session as an opportunity to get 1% better.
Ready to prepare for the next level?
At Compete Sports Performance, we specialize in helping high school athletes make a strong, confident transition to college athletics. From personalized strength programs to mental performance coaching, we’re here to support your journey.
Contact us today to schedule your evaluation and start training like a college athlete.