Balancing the demands of academics and college soccer can be a great challenge, but with the right mindset, strategies and support it is one that can lead to life-changing personal development.
Murray Fraser, now a college placement consultant for FirstPoint USA, had a successful college career at NCAA DIII Trinity University in Texas, becoming a four-time SCAC Champion, making 78 appearances for the Tigers, while also earning a business degree which set him on the path to a commercial career working with brands such as Maserati, Genesis, McLaren and Scottish Rugby.
“Balancing everything was the most challenging part,” Murray admits. “When you’re training every day, attending three or four classes, and trying to keep up with homework and exams, time management becomes crucial. You have to be organized and stay on top of your coursework, while still meeting the expectations of your coaches and teammates.”
Despite the challenges, Murray emphasizes that the college soccer experience helped him grow as a person. “It teaches you what you want to do in life and gives you the chance to live the dream of playing at a high level while working toward a degree that sets you up for a successful career.”
Here’s Murray’s top tips to balancing college academics with playing and training at a top level soccer program.
Tip 1: Master Time Management
Time is your most valuable resource as a student-athlete. Between classes, practices, games, and study sessions, every minute counts. Start by creating a detailed schedule that includes:
- Class times and deadlines
- Practice and game schedules
- Study blocks
- Personal time for rest and recovery
Use tools like Google Calendar, planners, or time-management apps to stay organized. Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance.
Tip 2: Communicate with Professors and Coaches
At the beginning of each semester, introduce yourself to your professors and let them know about your soccer commitments. Most professors are understanding and may offer flexibility with deadlines or provide additional support if needed.
Similarly, keep your coaches informed about your academic workload. They want you to succeed both on and off the field, and they may be able to adjust your training schedule during particularly busy academic periods.
Tip 3: Develop Effective Study Habits
As a student-athlete, you may have less time to study than your peers, so it’s important to make the most of the time you do have. Here are some study tips:
- Study in chunks: Use the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break) to stay productive.
- Find your optimal study environment: Whether it’s the library, a quiet coffee shop, or your dorm room, choose a space where you can focus.
- Leverage downtime: Use travel time to games or breaks between classes to review notes or complete smaller tasks.
Tip 4: Stay Ahead of Assignments
College soccer schedules can be unpredictable, with games, travel, and unexpected delays. To avoid falling behind, aim to complete assignments ahead of deadlines. This way, if a game or practice runs late, you won’t be scrambling to finish your work.
Tip 5: Take Care of Your Body and Mind
Balancing academics and soccer is physically and mentally demanding. To perform at your best, prioritize self-care:
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours per night to support recovery and cognitive function.
- Eat well: Fuel your body with nutritious meals to maintain energy levels and focus.
- Manage stress: Practice mindfulness, meditation, or other relaxation techniques to stay mentally sharp.
Tip 6: Build a Support System
You don’t have to do it all alone. Lean on your teammates, friends, family, and academic advisors for support. Many colleges also offer resources specifically for student-athletes, such as tutoring services, study groups, and time-management workshops. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of these resources.
Tip 7: Set Realistic Goals
It’s important to set achievable goals for both your academic and athletic pursuits. Break down larger goals into smaller, actionable steps. For example, if you want to maintain a 3.5 GPA while starting every game, create a plan that outlines how you’ll manage your time and energy to achieve both.
Tip 8: Embrace the Grind
Balancing academics and college soccer isn’t easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. There will be days when you feel overwhelmed but remember why you’re doing this. You’re not just a student or an athlete—you’re both. Embrace the challenges as opportunities to grow and celebrate your successes along the way.
Tip 9: Learn to Say No
College is full of distractions, from social events to extracurricular activities. While it’s important to have fun and make memories, learn to say no to commitments that don’t align with your priorities. Focus on what truly matters to you—your education and your sport.
Tip 10: Keep the Big Picture in Mind
At the end of the day, college soccer is just one chapter of your life. While it’s important to give your all on the field, your education will open doors long after your playing days are over. Strive for balance but remember that your academic success is an investment in your future.
