These 8 simple rules will help your child to become the next college student athlete.
#1: Let your athlete take the lead
Within the sporting world, helicopter mums can often be found over their child, and dads can be seen living vicariously through their kid. It is important that parents let their athlete become their own team captain.
#2: Teach humility
Intangibles such as attitudes are a huge factor in the decision making process for college coaches. Therefore, are essential skills to be taught by parents.
#3: Be a mentor, not just a cheerleader
As a parent, it is a given that you will always support your athlete. However, it is important that you also offer encouragement and support for your student athlete, as and when they need it.
#4: Create a specific plan and follow it
Make your goals SMART – Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely. This will help to ensure that parents and their student athletes are able to stay on track and achieve their goals.
#5: Be realistic and get an honest evaluation of your athlete
Find objective statistics. If it’s your child’s dream to get into an Ivy League school then encourage them to apply, but don’t pressure them into doing so because it’s a dream of your own.
#6: Understand your expected family contribution
It is very likely that your child will not receive a full-ride athletic scholarship, therefore it is often down to the parents to help fund this difference. However, the right college for your student athlete will fit them academically, athletically, socially, and financially.
#7: Know how far is too far
I you are able to restrain your instinct to keep your child close to home, exponentially more college options and opportunities arise.
#8: Don’t solely rely on your school or club coach
Your child’s coach is busy coaching; it’s not their responsibility to help your child to get a scholarship.
Your student athlete can’t do this on their own; it’s important they know they have your support and encouragement too.
