– TEEN –
SO YOUR KID WANTS TO PLAY SPORTS IN COLLEGE? By Deena Paradiso, M.S. Ed.
A
ccording to the NCAA(NCAA.org) only 7% of high school athletes go on to play their sport at the varsity level in college and even less get offered scholarships to play. These statistics can be overwhelming, but if your child has the desire to play sports in college, the following information can help. The first way to help a student achieve their goal of playing sports in college is to emphasize the importance of academics. Students and parents should familiarize themselves with these requirements, which include GPA and standardized test score minimums. They can do so by visiting www. NCAA.org and registering for an account and also by speaking to the school counselor
30 ParenthoodIQ.com • WINTER 2019-20
about these requirements. Meeting these academics requirements may fulfill the NCAA requirements, but it may not be sufficient enough to gain entrance to certain colleges. Parents and coaches can help the student by speaking to them open and honestly about their athletic ability. Have your child look up their stats and compare them to current players on rosters for teams they may be interested in playing for. Coaches can help by suggesting camps and college showcases for your child to attend. If your child wants to be a college athlete, work closely with their high school and travel coaches to help your child find the right type of college program to pursue.
