Student athletes balance packed schedules that require focus both on and off the field. At Wright State University, managing academics, practices, workouts, games and personal time is all part of daily life. Here is a closer look at a day in the life of a Raider athlete!
Balancing school
Being a college student takes time, patience and a lot of focus. Keeping up with classes alone is already demanding, but adding a sport into the mix makes it even trickier. Junior club soccer player at WSU, Makel White, shared what a typical day looks like for him.
“I’m in [the] ROTC program for army, President of Black Men on the Move, and secretary of Red Cross Society. I’m extremely busy,” White said.
White starts his day early with physical training for the army, and then makes sure to prioritize academics. Once his schoolwork is done, he turns his attention to practice.
“I pretty much review from my lectures and that takes up half a day. When all my homework is done and whatnot, I get to practice, or if I had an event, I’ll do that in between,” White said.
Balancing athletics
Club sports give students a chance to stay active and connected on campus while still playing at a competitive level. They are also a great way to build friendships and be part of a team atmosphere.
According to WSU's club sports page, “Club sports teams are typically made up of people who still love competing on more than a casual level and who enjoy the atmosphere of being part of a team. Your teammates often will remain your best friends throughout life. Whether you are interested in an existing club or would like to form a new club, there is something available for everyone.”
For White, choosing club sports has been an important part of his college experience. It allows him to stay involved in athletics while still having the flexibility to focus on academics and join other organizations.
“I joined a club team because I wanted to continue my passion for soccer. I like this club team a lot because the players also have a desire to win and still be competitive while also having a good time together,” White said.
Balancing self-care
When choosing to play a sport in college, it is still important to make time for self-care. Even though club teams are not a part of the NCAA, athletes can still face challenges with mental health. The NCAA provides resources to support student-athletes.
“Together with leading medical organizations, behavioral health centers and content matter experts, the SSI provides educational resources for member schools to promote and support the health and well-being of student-athletes," the NCAA's page reads.
The website contains pages on how to identify mental health struggles, as well as video and education modules about how to help yourself and others.
White agrees that taking care of yourself matters just as much as school and sports.
“I found out how important it is to have that free time and mental clarity so I can have a space with no expectations being set. Being on campus I really enjoy seeing familiar faces and meeting new people. I enjoy going to events and being able to kick it with people I know,” White said.
Student athletes interested in learning more about how to support themselves, or others who want to learn how to help, visit the NCAA's page of resources.
