October 23, 2008

Dear Student Athlete, Be Honest With Yourself

By Jake Chapman, Showcase U Co-founder

Student athletes and families deserve the truth.  When asked to offer an opinion on what level a player can play at in college, I swallow hard and speak from the heart, knowing in some instances, it may not be what they want to hear.  Whether it means discussing the differences of DI, DII, DIII, NAIA or NJCAA programs, or simply stating that the basic athletic and academic skills aren't presently met to play at the division I level, families deserve an honest assessment.  Here are some places I'd recommend you look for this assessment.

1. Yourself.   Be knowledgable of your skills and those around you.  If you are performing at the level of others currently getting recruited by schools, then target the similar sized institutions.  Ask yourself how many athletes from your high school are playing at the next level.  Are you the same player they were?  Are you close?  Set your sights high, but be realistic.  The old phrase, "D-I or none" is very relevant to this topic.  Remember, there are well over 1,800 colleges and universities that offer sports that are not Division I. 
2. Coaches.  High school, travel and club team coaches are also another great source for opinion.  Many of them have been coaching for years and have seen the caliber of college bound athletes.  Ask them if you possess the skills to play at the next level, and if not, what are your weaknesses.  By identifying your weaknesses and improving them, you will become a more well-rounded athlete.
3. Colleges.  We all live within driving distance to colleges and universities.  Go take in a game or practice if it does not conflict with your schedule and see for yourself.  Observe the size, speed, power of the current athletes and soak in the experience.  This might give you tremendous confidence moving forward knowing that, after seeing them in action, you'd fit right in.
4. Instructors.  Many former players and coaches give lessons and put on camps and clinics.  Seeking the advice from people who have "been there--done that" is a wonderful way to get the information you are looking for. 

These are just some of the sources you can tap into to get a feel for where you are as a player.  Just remember, the ultimate responsibility lies with you, the student athlete.  So ask yourself some tough questions and BE HONEST with yourself.  By doing so, you'll be able to take a more realistic approach to playing at the next level.  

Below are some other questions you might ask yourself.

1. Am I doing everything I can in the classroom to prepare myself for the academic rigors of college and to position myself for an academic scholarship?
2. Am I taking care of my body with proper nutrition, rest, and hydration while remaining drug and alcohol free?
3. Do I train the highest of intensity, push my body and mind beyond their limits, and maximize the potentential of my God given talent?
4. Do I conduct myself in a respectful manner -- on and off the field?
5. Do I realize that my current coach can be my biggest advocate and unnesseccary conflict and drama can lead to major problems during the recruiting process?
6. If I were a college coach, would I open my doors to a player with my character, academic standing and athletic ability? 

I've listed 6 questions you can ask yourself.  What else should you ask yourself?   Leave us a comment and we'll take it to the ShowcaseU forums.  Good luck with your personal recruiting campaign.   

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