Student-athletes face many challenges that can limit their success in sports and academics. To excel in the classroom and stay committed to a team or individual sport demands a lot of time and energy of students. Ayden Hector, an Eastside Catholic High School graduate, discovered the importance of managing academics and high school football.
Hector’s hard work and determination paid off, eventually earning him a spot on the Colorado State University Rams football team as a defensive back. He believes balancing high school football and academics is both a challenging and rewarding experience. Here, he shares some tips on maintaining a good GPA while playing high school football, enjoying a social life, and volunteering.
7 Tips to Balancing Academics and Football
1. Prioritize good nutrition and sleep
Eating nutrient-dense foods and getting the recommended amount of sleep is critical in providing the body and mind with the energy it needs – especially for student-athletes. Good sleep will enable the mental power required to have fast reaction times, remember plays, and stay focused in the classroom and socially engaged. Good nutrition, of course, is a requirement to building strength, speed, and endurance. Consider foods rich in complex carbohydrates (whole grains and beans), plenty of unprocessed fruits and vegetables, and a moderate amount of protein, which is valuable for muscle repair.
2. Leverage the power of technology
Staying organized and making time for all the practice, games, studying, and socializing can be overwhelming. Consider using a digital app to create a schedule that keeps track of all your commitments. During high school, Ayden Hector not only played football and maintained a good academic record, but he also found the time to volunteer within his community. He used digital technology to create appointment reminders and action or to-do lists. Consider tools for note-taking, calendar scheduling, word processors, and interactive whiteboards for studying and brainstorming.
3. Manage your time effectively
Good time management skills will serve students well into their professional lives. To avoid physical and emotional fatigue, you must use your time wisely. When time is managed, students experience less stress, increased confidence, and a better work/life balance. To manage time better, plan ahead and prioritize which tasks demand your time. Also, consider breaking down larger tasks into smaller chunks, while also learning how to say ‘no’ when your time is limited.
4. Set attainable goals
Indeed, there are only 24 hours each day to achieve your goals. Avoid the pitfall of setting your goals too high, on the field or in the classroom. It is best to assess your current levels concerning your needs to study or work out more. Once you determine where you want to be, break down larger goals into smaller steps. You’ll find you can succeed by taking it one step at a time. Always use your support group of teachers, family, coaches, and friends for guidance in setting attainable goals.
5. Ask for help when needed
The biggest mistake you can make when having a dual athletic and academic path is not asking for help. Guidance counselors, tutors, parents, coaches, and many community resources can be used to maintain your balance. Mental health is more important than sports and critical to a high school football player’s success. Don’t hesitate to schedule a private meeting with a healthcare provider, and strive to be open and honest while seeking answers. Even social issues can seem daunting, but one of your teammates has often navigated a similar circumstance if you simply speak up.
6. Maintain a social life
When managing academics and high school football, it is essential to also maintain contact with non-athletic friends and the community at large. Ayden Hector participated in many school activities and used volunteer service to stay engaged with the community. Volunteering as a student referee for a youth football program added meaning to his life while feeding his passion for the game. He also volunteered for the community food bank and Relay for Life, an event where participants walk to raise funds for cancer research. Look for volunteer opportunities supporting your values, passions, or interests to stay socially connected.
7. Recognize warning signs
Finally, look for warning signs that you are physically, mentally, or emotionally overwhelmed. These include physical ailments, excessive worry, isolation from family or friends, missing school assignments, or grades beginning to drop. Another signal is prominent changes in your routine, such as sleeping too much or too little, neglecting personal hygiene, and not keeping up with your responsibilities at home.
A student-athlete has many rewards, but maintaining that balancing act is the only way to succeed in academics and high school football.