As you’re considering playing college football, there are a few things I wish someone had told me before I started. After five years of Division 1 football, I’ve learned a lot about what to expect, both on and off the field. Here are some things I wasn’t fully prepared for that might help you navigate this journey with a clearer mindset.
- It’s a Business.
Going into my first year of Division One football, I was mostly thinking about myself and my position on the team. This is where I quickly realized the greatest difference between high school and collegiate athletics. Winning is everything and the entire football staff will do whatever it takes to put themselves and the future of the program first. There are jobs and careers on the line and often people don’t understand the financial impact the team generates. With all this being said, I had to look out for myself and myself only. The coaches and staff will make decisions about you without your knowledge or consent. One has to do the same for themselves in situations that can affect your career.
- The Commitment.
High school kids often underestimate the amount of time and effort that is needed to play at a high level. You will get some free time here and there, but for the most part, your daily schedule revolves around school and football. Balancing academics with practices, workouts, meetings, travel, and games, I quickly learned that football will take up the majority of my time. This was just the first realization of the sacrifices I was going to be making for the next 4.5 years.
- Level of Competition.
Even if you were the best player in high school, college football brings together players who were top recruits, elite athletes, and future pros. The competition for playing time is fierce, and you’ll have to constantly prove yourself to earn a spot on the field no matter who you are. I’ve seen great players be put into a position where they couldn’t contribute as much due to their effort levels or even circumstances controlled by coaches in the background.
- Time Management.
This is not a cliche. I remember hearing this was the most beneficial skill needed to be a college athlete and I quickly realized it was all true. Often times there isn’t a lot of free time to be had. A lot of my leisure time was used to get caught up on school work or prepare for the next day. You’ll need to stay organized, plan ahead for exams, and find time to study while managing a packed football schedule. Many players struggle with this, so having a strong support system like friends, teammates, coaches, tutors, etc. is important.
- Mental Game.
Football is as much a mental game as it is physical. There will be moments where you’re fatigued, stressed, or doubting yourself. Learning how to stay focused, stay positive, and deal with setbacks—like being benched or facing criticism—is crucial for maintaining confidence and success.
- It’s Bigger Than You
On the football side, there is a lot that goes into a program and oftentimes people are too worried about themself and their contributions rather than winning games. If you are good enough, you will play. There’s no way around it, if you find yourself contemplating why you aren’t getting playing time, there should only be one way to go about it, and that’s work. On the other side of things, while playing college football is an amazing experience, it’s important to remember that academics, personal growth, and relationships are just as important. Football is a part of your college journey, but it’s not your entire journey. Focusing on your overall development will help you in the long run, both on and off the field.
College football is a wild ride that demands a lot from you, but it also offers unmatched opportunities for personal growth. Embrace the challenges, stay true to your values, and always keep the bigger picture in mind. Whether you’re on the field or off, these experiences will shape who you become, both as an athlete and as a person. Keep pushing forward, and remember to take time for what matters outside of the game.
About the Author:
Braden Contreras is a former Division 1 football player with five years of experience on the field. Throughout his college career, he gained valuable insights into the demands and challenges of being a student-athlete at the highest level. Now, as a recent graduate, Braden shares his firsthand experiences to help others navigate the complexities of college football and student life. Follow him on Instagram to see more of his journey and advice on sports, fitness, and personal development: Braden.Contreras
