By Catrina Roth, NCSA Recruiting Coach Intern and Swimmer at Syracuse University
As summer winds down and it is time to head back to school, many swimmers will jump right into high school swim season. It is important to remember that although working hard and having fun in the pool is a key factor, the ability to balance schoolwork and remain healthy are just as crucial to a successful season.
There are a few items every swimmer has to juggle to excel in the pool and in school:
- Academics: Remember that no matter how fast you are in the water, you will not be very attractive to a college coach if you don’t have the grades to match! Put school first!
- Two-A-Days: Even if your high school season is not in the fall, as soon as the two-a-day workouts and constant dual meets begin, you may find it hard to keep your schedule in line. Work with you parents and coaches to help you manage your time.
- Diet & Sleep: Don’t forget the basics: Eating a balanced diet and ensuring that you get a full night of sleep every night will make it easier to endure the long practices and school days. You will not be successful in the pool if you are not giving your body what it needs in terms of rest and nutrition, and you will not be successful in the classroom either.
- Community: As busy as you may be, do not neglect your local community. It is important to stay involved in a few activities that are not swimming related. These activities will enhance your resume when it is time to apply to colleges/universities.
- The other important thing to remember is to Practice Hard & Compete. Keep in mind that from a collegiate recruiting perspective your high school season is just as important, if not more important, than your club swimming season. If your high school does not have a swim team, there are still ways to get noticed in many states. My high school did not have a swimming program, so my club coach and I explored ways that I could still participate in the high school state meet series. We discovered that I was allowed to train with my club team and compete in club swim meets while everyone else was in high school season, but I could still represent my high school as an independent performer at the state series. Participating in the high school state meets provided me with exposure to college coaches.
If you take care of your body and prepare properly, you will set yourself up for a successful school year and swim season. Good luck!
