A GUIDE TO WHAT TO EXPECT IN AMERICAN SYSTEM

Benefits of being a college student-athlete in

the United States
 

 By GAVIN DEAR

 Golf Scholars

Who attended Lynn University,

Florida for four years.

Many parents and prospective college student-athletes are unsure of what to expect at college. The differences between their college experience and a normal student’s college experience. Golf Scholars has discussed this with a number of former student-athletes about the benefits of playing U.S college golf.

· Team environment: 

   Starting college can be a daunting thought. However, as a college student-athlete you are joining a team who can pass on advice and help you in new and unfamiliar situations. Your coach will act as guidance counsellor, organising and helping in all situations.

·  Full schedule: 

   On starting college you will immediately be given a full schedule. You will have work-outs (6.30am-8am), class (8am-Noon) and practice (1pm-6). 

  This is something that can help freshman adjust to the new responsibilities of being away from home.      

   Rooming:

   Most coaches prefer to have their athletes rooming together as this helps foster team spirit and will help you adjust to college life. It also stops distractions as you both have the same aims of making the travelling team and winning golf tournaments.

· Course Selection:

   It is important to select the correct (education) courses. Your coach and team-mates will give you good advice on what to take and when to take it. Your courses must allow you to be available for practice. Most golf teams practise in the afternoon so you will have to select morning classes.

·  Health:

   Being a student-athlete, you will have access to your institution’s medical and health department who will work with you to make sure you are in the best condition to play golf. Your coach will also make sure you eat properly and they will give you the best meal plans and advise on nutrition.

·  Clothes and equipment: 

   Student-athletes will be given clothes and equipment to wear for practice, tournaments and on campus. Wearing these clothes will not only allow you to represent the college but also will help people identify you as a student-athlete.

· Tournaments and travel:

  Your yearly college tournament schedule will consist of around 14 to 15 events. One event will be a home tournament at your practice course but the rest will be at other venues, giving you the opportunity to travel across America and play fantastic golf courses. 

Golf Scholars also publishes coach ‘meets’ on our blog which allow young golfers to learn a little bit more about our member coaches and their golf programs. 

For more information please check out the Golf Scholars website www.golfscholars.com or contact me at gavin@golfscholars.com