What it means to be a Student first, Athlete second
Post-secondary institutions are home to some of the most talented and driven student-athletes in the world. These individuals excel both academically and athletically, balancing a rigorous training schedule with challenging coursework. While many of these student-athletes may prioritize their sport, it's important to remember that they are students first, athletes second.
Being a student first means placing academic success as the top priority. While sports may be a passion, education is the key to unlocking future opportunities and career prospects. At post-secondary institutions, student-athletes must maintain a certain grade point average to remain eligible to compete in their respective sports. This is because academic success and athletic success go hand in hand. If a student-athlete fails to prioritize their studies, they may struggle to balance their commitments, leading to poor performance in both areas.
Being a student first also means taking advantage of the opportunities presented at post-secondary institutions. Universities and colleges offer a wealth of academic resources, from academic advisors to writing centers and tutoring programs. It's important for student-athletes to take advantage of these resources to ensure academic success. Participating in extracurricular activities and internships can also help student-athletes develop skills that will serve them well in their future careers.
While it can be challenging to balance academics and athletics, being an athlete second means putting in the necessary effort to excel on the field or court. This requires discipline and dedication to training, as well as taking care of one's physical health and well-being. Student-athletes must learn to manage their time effectively, carving out time for both their academic and athletic pursuits.
Being an athlete second also means embracing the values of sportsmanship and teamwork. These are important qualities that can be applied both on and off the field. Student-athletes who excel in their sport must also learn to be humble and gracious in victory, as well as resilient and determined in defeat.
In conclusion, being a student first and athlete second is crucial for success at post-secondary institutions. While it can be tempting to prioritize one's sport, it's important to remember that academic success is the foundation for future success. Student-athletes must learn to balance their academic and athletic commitments, taking advantage of the resources and opportunities available to them while also embracing the values of sportsmanship and teamwork. With dedication, discipline, and hard work, student-athletes can achieve success both in the classroom and on the field.
