SPORTS EDITOR – XIMENA VALLECILLO
ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON SEPT 13, 2023
College athletics is integral to establishing friendships, encouraging physical health and teaching important life skills. They present student-athletes with the challenge of striking a balance between a demanding sport schedule and academic obligations. Weekend travel for matches has a profound impact on their academic performance. It is important to examine the effects of weekend travel and develop strategies for adjusting to these responsibilities in an effective manner so that student-athletes can ensure their success both on the field and in the classroom.
A challenge faced by student athletes is effective time management. Weekend travel disrupts students, making it challenging to organize time for coursework. Long distance travel causes exhaustion, especially when combined with late-night games. It’s normal to feel frustrated when faced with the many responsibilities of a college student. The fear of falling behind in school work is overwhelming and can lead to lower academic performance. Studentathletes often miss class due to traveling which negatively effect their understanding of class material, making it difficult for them to complete assignments and perform well in exams. It has become increasingly difficult for student-athletes studying a demanding major.
There are many strategies to help student-athletes balance academic and sport obligations. Communication between the student and the professor is key to requesting Office Hours and extensions to accommodate time obstacles. Professors must be informed ahead of time to provide alternate solutions to access the course content and provide accommodation or assignments to those who need it. Athletes must prioritize their time management and organize a routine for themselves. Creating a detailed schedule will help encourage them to take advantage of their time by allocating specific study hours.
Mental health should be prioritized in conjunction with physical excellence. Athletes need to maintain proper nutrition, adequate sleep and regular exercise considering to support their overall wellbeing and functionality. Athletes should also be offered academic resources tailored to their unique needs, such as tutoring, personal support and flexibility inside course responsibilities. These strategies help student-athletes maintain focus and motivation while establishing clear academic and athletic goals.
College athletics offers numerous benefits but still negatively affects a student-athlete as a scholar. By implementing strategies, they can achieve a balance between athletics and academics. They must be provided sufficient resources and support to secure their success. Being a student-athlete reveals determination, resilience, and the desire to succeed on and off the playing field.