Athlete Career and Education

The club should be as concerned about the athlete’s personal development as it is with their athletic accomplishments. Student athletes face many challenges when dealing with the demands placed upon them. Expectations are high and at times it may seem overwhelming for athletes to balance their training and competition schedule with their desire to graduate with an exceptional academic record for college placement opportunities.

The club will provide great service to the athlete and will win the approval and advocacy of the parents if a coordinated effort is developed for club athletes to balance their athletic and academic aspirations. The club should assign one person, staff or volunteer, who has experience with student athletes to support the athlete in pursuing personal athletic and academic goals.

Some best practices for athlete academics include:

• Establish good relationships with the school administration and counselors.

• Demonstrate genuine concern to school leadership regarding athlete academic standards.

• Collaborate with the counselor regarding student performance and potential.

• Evolve the relationship with the public school system to accommodate the absence needs of the athletes.

• Monitors minimum scholastic performance.

• Develop a network of key college coaches that will be interested in high performing student athletes.

• Communicate regularly with the parents regarding possible opportunities and solutions.

• Progressive planning can provide ideal solutions for the balance of athletics and academics such as:

  • Club enlists a tutorial opportunities and support in collaborations with the school.

  • Club establishes an alternative, accredited academic environment to facilitate training and competition needs.

  • Club facilitates study halls and provides academic support during extended travel for training or competition.

For assistance contact: education@ussa.org