Fort Lewis College Prepares Future Athletes: A Detailed Look at the Visit
The air buzzed with anticipation on May , as a group of eighth-grade student-athletes from Bayfield Middle School stepped onto the vibrant campus of Fort Lewis College (FLC). With dreams of collegiate athletics dancing in their heads, these wide-eyed students embarked on a special visit, eager to soak up knowledge and gain valuable insight into navigating the exciting, yet often demanding, path toward competing at the next level.
Meeting the Mentors
Leading the day’s events was FLC Athletic Director Travis Whipple, a man who embodies the spirit of collegiate athletics. With a warm smile and an aura of genuine enthusiasm, Whipple, alongside other key members of the FLC athletic department, extended a warm welcome to the visiting student-athletes.
The message was clear: Fort Lewis College is not just about recruiting talented athletes; it’s about fostering relationships and nurturing potential. It’s about planting seeds of hope and inspiration in the hearts of young athletes who dare to dream big. This visit exemplified FLC’s commitment to supporting aspiring athletes on their journey, every step of the way.
Navigating the Academic Landscape
Whipple, a firm believer in the “student-athlete” philosophy, wasted no time in emphasizing the paramount importance of academics. He led an engaging discussion on strategic course selection throughout high school, highlighting the significance of a solid foundation in core subjects. “College athletics is about excellence on and off the field,” Whipple stressed, “and it all begins with your commitment to academic success in high school.”
The discussion then shifted to the often-confusing world of the NCAA Eligibility Center, a crucial gateway for any student-athlete aspiring to compete at the Division I or II level.
NCAA Eligibility Center: Your Ticket to the Game
Think of the NCAA Eligibility Center as the gatekeeper to your collegiate athletic dreams, regardless of whether you’re aiming for Division I or II. It’s the organization that certifies your academic eligibility to compete at the NCAA level. Now, you might be thinking, “Ninth grade is way too early to be worrying about this stuff!” But trust me, registering early is key. Why? Because it gives you ample time to sort out any potential hiccups along the way.
Academic Importance: It’s Not Just About the Sport
Let’s get real for a sec. Maintaining a solid GPA throughout high school isn’t just about making your parents proud (though, let’s be honest, it does that too!). It’s about opening doors to incredible opportunities in college athletics.
Your GPA, along with your SAT/ACT scores, acts like a secret code that unlocks scholarship opportunities. The higher your GPA, the better your chances of snagging those coveted scholarships and financial aid packages. Remember, college is an investment, and a good academic record can help lighten that financial load big time.
Maximizing Athletic Exposure
While academics form the bedrock of a successful athletic journey, showcasing your athletic prowess is equally vital. Whipple, a former college athlete himself, understands the importance of maximizing exposure and catching the eye of college recruiters. “Don’t limit yourselves,” he urged the young athletes, “participate in a variety of sports. Colleges love well-rounded individuals who can contribute their talents across different disciplines.”
And it’s not just about school teams, Whipple emphasized. “Explore opportunities outside the traditional school setting,” he advised. “Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) teams and club sports offer invaluable experience and exposure to a broader audience of coaches and scouts.”
Digital Age Recruiting: Hudl Up!
In today’s digital age, the recruitment game has gone high-tech. Whipple introduced the students to a game-changer in athletic recruiting: hudl.com. This online platform has revolutionized how athletes showcase their skills to potential recruiters across the nation and beyond.
Creating Highlight Reels: Your Digital Resume
“Think of your Hudl highlight reel as your digital resume,” explained FLC Assistant Athletic Director, Ryanne Erickson, as she took the stage. “It’s your chance to make a killer first impression on college coaches who might be thousands of miles away.” Erickson, with her infectious energy and knack for simplifying complex concepts, walked the students through the ins and outs of creating a standout Hudl profile and crafting highlight reels that capture attention.
Coach Relationships: Your Biggest Fans
While technology plays a crucial role, Erickson stressed the enduring importance of human connections. “Build strong, respectful relationships with your high school coaches,” she emphasized. “They are your biggest advocates, your mentors, and your direct line to college recruiters.” Erickson reminded the students that coaches often have extensive networks and can vouch for their character and work ethic, qualities highly valued by college programs.
Fueling the Dream: Nutrition and Strength Training
The aroma of delicious, healthy food wafted through the air as the student-athletes were ushered into the FLC dining hall. More than just a pit stop for lunch, this session was all about fueling athletic aspirations through proper nutrition and strength training.
Nutrition: It’s Not Just About Calories
FLC’s registered dietitian, Sarah Thompson, led the charge, debunking common nutrition myths and emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet tailored to an athlete’s specific needs. “It’s not just about counting calories,” Thompson explained, “it’s about understanding the role of different nutrients in optimizing performance, recovery, and overall well-being.”
Thompson, armed with colorful charts and relatable examples, broke down the essentials of pre-workout fuel, post-workout recovery nutrition, and the importance of hydration. She stressed the significance of making smart food choices consistently, even on non-training days, to support optimal athletic development.
Strength Training: Building a Solid Foundation
Next up was FLC’s head strength and conditioning coach, Mark Johnson, a man who embodies the phrase “strong body, strong mind.” Johnson, with his calm demeanor and wealth of knowledge, emphasized the crucial role of strength training in injury prevention, enhancing athletic performance, and building a solid foundation for long-term athletic success.
Dispelling the myth that strength training is only for elite athletes, Johnson explained, “Strength training is for everyone, regardless of your chosen sport or skill level. It’s about building a resilient body that can withstand the demands of training and competition.”
Looking Ahead: College Visits and Beyond
As the day drew to a close, Whipple gathered the student-athletes one last time, their faces beaming with newfound knowledge and inspiration. “Remember,” he said, “choosing a college is a big decision. Don’t be afraid to explore different campuses, talk to current student-athletes, and envision yourselves thriving in that environment.”
Whipple extended an open invitation to the students, encouraging them to return to FLC for future visits as they navigate their high school years. “Consider this your home away from home,” he said with a warm smile, “a place where you can always come for guidance and support on your athletic and academic journey.”
The visit to Fort Lewis College was more than just a field trip; it was an investment in the future. It was about planting seeds of possibility, nurturing dreams, and empowering young athletes with the knowledge and tools to navigate the exciting, albeit challenging, path toward collegiate athletics. As the Bayfield Middle School students boarded the bus, their eyes sparkled with newfound determination, their hearts brimming with hope—the legacy of a day well spent at Fort Lewis College.