Crack Those Books
I was recently speaking with David Bailey, founder of Bailey Baseball. David has helped hundreds of young athletes pursue their baseball dreams. One thing he always recommends is that athletes place as much emphasis on achieving academically as they do athletically. He explained, “You should think of it as if you only have one semester guaranteed once you’ve received a scholarship. By making the grade academically, you’re enhancing your chances of keeping your scholarship active.” That’s because your chances are enhanced since good students typically make their coaches lives easier.
High school students who achieve academically may be able to get additional financial assistance from the college in the form of academic scholarships. That additional financial assistance may minimize the “sports program’s” overall burden and contribute to your ability to carry the financial burden that a college education imposes. And, students that make their grades a priority usually mean less trouble for their coaches in the long run by minimizing the overall coaching and administrative burden.
Very few athletes actually make it to the collegiate level of play let alone professionally. We can’t emphasize it enough. Your education (and grades) must be your priority.