College Wrestling after Military Service

Hi there! Just wondering if it's feasible to pursue collegiate wrestling after having served in the military? Does anyone have experiences or stories about this?

Absolutely, it's definitely feasible for you to pursue collegiate wrestling after serving in the military! There are numerous stories of veterans going on to join college athletic teams, including wrestling. Your military service demonstrates discipline and a strong work ethic, attributes that can serve you well in collegiate athletics.

However, there are eligibility rules that you need to be aware of. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) typically grants athletes five years from the time they first enroll in college to compete in their sport for four seasons. However, the NCAA allows for exceptions for military service, among others. This means that the time you spend serving in the military shouldn't affect your eligibility to wrestle in college.

Additionally, remember that wrestling at the college level would require a significant time commitment alongside your studies. Balancing academics, rigorous training schedules, matches, and potentially work or other responsibilities can be challenging.

As you consider your options, be sure to reach out to the athletics department at the colleges you're interested in. They can provide specific insights about the wrestling program, the experiences of student-athletes, and what might be expected of you as a member of the team. They can also offer guidance on NCAA rules and help facilitate discussions with coaches.

In terms of anecdotal experiences, it's not uncommon to find veterans in collegiate sports. For example, many athletes have made successful transitions from the military to college football teams, showing that the structure, discipline, and physical training from military service can positively influence athletic performance in college sports.

In conclusion, your military service should not be a deterrent to wrestling in college. In fact, your experience might provide you with valuable skills that could enhance your performance and resilience. Best of luck!