Playing College Soccer – Why? Are you truly prepared?

Why do you want to play college soccer? Have you actually asked yourself this question or do you simply state: "I want to play college soccer." If you have yet to ask yourself this question, stop reading this article immediately. Ask yourself why you want to play college soccer and write down three reasons. When you have done this go back and do the same thing as to why you wouldn't want to play college soccer. What are the deterrents that could ultimately conflict with student-life? Familiarizing yourself with potential obstacles is the best way to truly prepare you for the next step.

Time consuming. Plain and simple; time constraints play a big role in the overall life of a student-athlete. Homework, classes, studying, friends, relaxing and we can't leave out partying, are all a major player in the life of a college student. Don't forget to add, practice, games, work out, rehab, study hall & community service to mention just a few additional items you need to fit in to your weekly if not daily routine. Can you handle it?

Preparation is the key to success. Benjamin Franklin put it simply; and in an effective manner he states: "By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." Take this to heart because success is a measure of preparation. Knowing what is coming is important, by reading this article it is apparent that you care about your future. Do as much research as you can around the idea of collegiate athletics. Speak to current and past student-athletes to indulge in the "life of a student-athlete."

If you've done the research and you are sure you want to move on to the collegiate level, the next step is to research the potential programs in which you would like to attend. Remember all college teams are different not because of their name or location but because of the way they operate. Coaches have very strong personalities, we know this. It is more than obvious. That being said researching a program should also focus on personnel as well as division, conference, style of play, etc. One more thing to take into account is the overall purpose of COLLEGE. More important that location, division, coaches and so on is the educational portion. Do not be afraid to give up a D1 scholarship to go to a school with a stellar history in producing lawyers, doctors or whatever you want to be for that matter.

There is almost too much to know… Consider contacting a consultant. www.PGDSports.com

Good Luck!

"Unfortunately, there seems to be far more opportunity out there than ability… We should remember that good fortune often happens when opportunity meets with preparation."

-Thomas A. Edison