Freshman year can be challenging. Freshmen have many expectations for themselves, the school, and their first season, and it can be stressful when things aren't going the way that was expected. Here are 8 things freshmen can do to make the most out of their first year as a student-athlete.
1. Playing time
Playing time can always be a tough subject for underclassmen. Most athletes come from their high school as being the best player on their team. It is hard to go from playing entire games to all of a sudden barely getting any playing time at all. You have to go into your first year knowing that you probably are not going to get as much playing time as you would like. Work as hard as you can in practice, lifts, and games. Eventually, your time will come.
2. Support your teammates!
It can be so hard to sit on the bench when you aren't used to it. However, if you have a good attitude and are supporting and cheering for your teammates, your coaches will take notice. Don't let a bad attitude get in the way of you getting playing time.
3. Learn!
As a college athlete, you have the opportunity to learn from some of the best athletes and (hopefully) coaches in the country. Watch how the upperclassmen play, and learn what makes them so effective against other college athletes. By simply paying attention, you can gain a ton of skills as an athlete.
4. Ask questions
Again, you have top-notch athletes, coaches, athletic trainers, and facilities at your fingertips. Pick their brains about what you can be doing to improve your game whenever possible.
5. Be flexible
Moving to a new place and joining a new team is a ton of change. Throughout your first year, you are going to have to be willing to compromise and change some things. Your coach might want to try you out in a new position or event. Take it as a compliment that your coach sees some potential in you, and give it a shot.
6. Get out of your comfort zone
Leaving your home and moving to a brand new place with people you don't know is the biggest step you can take as a college student. If you made it this far, congratulations! But don't stop there. Try to branch out and meet as many people as you can (even people who aren't athletes). If you have time, join some clubs that interest you, try some new foods in the dining hall, or talk to the people in your classes. You might actually surprise yourself with what you are capable of.
7. Cut yourself some slack
The best thing you can do as a freshman is to cut yourself some slack. You are going to make mistakes. Whether it's during a game, in the classroom, or with friends, recognize that nobody is perfect. Freshman year is stressful and nobody is expecting you to come in your first year and be perfect in everything you do. Your coaches and professors don't care if you are perfect. They care about what you do after a mistake. If you take everything as a learning opportunity, you will end up just fine.
8. HAVE FUN
Freshman year is all about discovering yourself and figuring out who you want to be. Try new things, figure out what works for you, and find people who you enjoy being around. Don't get too caught up in the expectations you set for yourself and the fun part will be easy from there.
