photo courtesy of PennAthletics.com
Everyone knows that being a varsity athlete in college comes with many challenges–juggling school work and practice time, giving up weekend time for away games, and waking up earlier than you ever did in high school. However, varsity athletics also has a large number of perks, ranging from staying in shape to making friends that feel more like family. Here is a breakdown of some of the downsides and the major plusses of being a varsity athlete.
Pro: You fight the freshman fifteen and can still eat whatever you want.
With more than two hours of practice everyday, often including double practices, you are forced to stay in shape. And with all that exercise comes the ability to eat a ton without gaining a pound.
You feel absolutely no shame as you go back for a second–or third–serving of ice cream at Commons.
Con: You’re always hungry, which leads you to spend all of your money on food.
….And now you’re broke. Let’s just say your parents aren’t shocked when your debit card statement says you’ve spent all your money at Insomnia, Cosi, and those late night runs to Wawa.
Pro: You have an awesome group of friends, and your team is like your family.
Being on a varsity team means you know people from the second you step on campus. Your team is your support system, and you know they will always be there for you when you need it.
Con: Your social life outside of the team is virtually nonexistent.
With most of your time spend practicing during the day, it’s hard to find time to have a flourishing social life. Morning practices means going out on weeknights is generally not an option, and having morning practices on the weekends could further limit your social options. Dry season rules means you can’t go out during competition or game season.
Pro: You learn great time management skills.
A structured and packed schedule forces you to be organized and regimented. With such little free time, you know you must use it wisely. You have small windows of opportunity to do homework, and every second is valuable. Procrastination isn’t even an option.
Con: You’re always tired.
Between training, homework, and fitting in time for friends and other responsibilities, your days are long and jam-packed with activity. Falling asleep in class is a common occurrence.Â
Naps are cherished gifts from the gods.
Pro: Your peers have a lot of respect for you.
Virtually everyone on campus understands how much time and energy being a varsity athlete requires. Athletes from different teams share a mutual respect for each other and form a network on college campuses. Truth be told…being an athelete just makes you feel more connected and, well, pretty cool.
Con: You’re instantly recognizable on campus…
…for being sweaty and wearing gym clothes around.
Not that you care.
Pro: You learn to challenge yourself, and you are extremely proud of your accomplishments when the season is over.
At the end of the season, after your final championship meet, match, or game, you look back with a sense of accomplishment and pride that you trained so hard and put your best effort in all season long.
Con: Morning practice.
Enough said.
Being a varsity athlete on a college team, despite how challenging or exhausting it can be, is truly a once in a lifetime experience.
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