You finally commit to the school of your dreams to play the sport that has gotten you through the toughest battles in life. You sign the National Letter of Intent in front of all your friends and family to show off all of the hard work you've put in. Little did you know that once you arrive, the hard work is just beginning.
1. Two-A-Days Suck and I Don't Care Who Knows It!
Everyone will tell you from experience that pre-season workouts and practices are the worst time of your life, but you won't really understand it until you're on the field puking because you just finished your 20th 100 yard sprint.
2. No Need For a Planner, Mom. My Coaches Made One For Me!
Ain't nobody (that plays a college sport) got time fo' ANYTHING! Your life is about to get really busy, really fast. From practice to team dinners, everything is planned for you. Even what to wear.
3. Travelling + School = HA, GOT EEEEM!
As much fun as travelling is, when you have a five page paper due the night of your game, time management is your best friend. Trust me: high school sports will not prepare you.
4. Winter/Summer Breaks Aren't Really Breaks
Remember when you could sleep late ,and just hang with friends on those once-in-a-while snow days or summer vacations? Now you have to get your butt back in the gym to run and lift because there really are no off days. Say goodbye to freedom and "Hellloooooo, protein shake."
5. You're Considered Lucky If You Get More Than Five Hours of Sleep
With practice, school and a social life, sleep is the first thing on your mind, and the last thing you accomplish. You get used to it, but man! You are so tired all of the time that it's almost like you're pregnant...except you can still see your toes.
6. Your Teammates Are Always Around
From living with most of your teammates, to seeing the rest of them at practice everyday, all of you tend to become a family. It's like a love/hate relationship.
7. You'll Never Hate Your Phone More Than When the Alarm Goes Off
Everyday, it seems that 6 a.m. comes earlier and earlier. You might even set about five alarms, just to pause reality.
8. People Who Aren't Athletes Tend To Hate You
You can try to make friends with the non-athletes at your school, but when you get to register for classes before them, or complain about not taking an 8 a.m. class, they probably won't be your friend for long.
9. Surprise! You've Been Adopted...By Your Coaches That Is
Moving out of your parents house is an awesome feeling until you realize you're not really "on your own." Your coaches are always there for you, even when you don't want them to be. They know more about your social life than you even do.
10. Your Life Freakin' Rocks
As much work, commitment, focus, talent and perseverance it takes to be a college athlete, you are the kings and queens of campus. You are known, spoiled and you're going to be debt free just because you love a sport so much that you would be willing to do anything to keep it in your life. How awesome is that?
