It's easy to let motivation lag in the summer–after all, it's hot outside, you're in the offseason, and there's so much fun to be had! However, the offseason is a crucial time for athletes to do something very important to gain a competitive edge: prepare. Preparation can look different for all athletes. For some, preparation comes before a big game or important showcase (think playing your favorite songs or going through a pre-game routine). For others, feeling prepared means conditioning in the offseason, studying play books, or reaching out to recruiters. But no matter what sport you play: “If you fail to prepare, you're prepared to fail.”
Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits
This quote comes from nine-time Olympic champion swimmer, Mark Spitz. As Spitz says, failure will ensue if you do not prepare but success can come through accurate preparation for the event. Here are some of our best articles on preparation so athletes of all levels can set themselves up for success:
How to Prepare for Your College Visits
How to Prepare for Women's College Ice Hockey
Tips to Prepare for Competitive Golf
The 22 Best Ways to Manage Pre-Game Nerves
Battling Performance Anxiety as a College Athlete
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* Originally published on June 6, 2022, by Ashton Grenon