Balancing a gap year with high school athletics

I'm a high school athlete thinking about taking a gap year after graduation. How might this affect my athletic skills and recruitment prospects for college sports? Any advice on maintaining my athletic edge during this time?

Taking a gap year as a high school athlete can be a very thoughtful decision depending on what your goals are post-graduation. It's quite key to have a plan as to how you intend to maintain and, ideally, improve your athletic skills during this time. Here's what you should consider:

1. Training and Physical Fitness: Your physical fitness is crucial. Without the structure and regularity of school athletics, you'll need to be disciplined in maintaining a regular training schedule. Seek out opportunities to play your sport outside of school, such as joining a local league or club. You might also consider hiring a personal trainer or coach to help you continue to develop your skills.

2. Recruitment Prospects: Be open with college coaches about your plans for a gap year. Some might view your decision positively if it gives you a chance to mature physically and emotionally. However, others might prefer you to enter college immediately after high school. It varies, so it's good to have those conversations early.

3. Academic Eligibility: Check with the NCAA or other sports governing bodies to ensure this decision won't impact your eligibility to play in college.

4. Continued Exposure: During your gap year, make efforts to continue to get exposure to college coaches. This could be through attending showcases, competing in tournaments, or periodically sending updates and video clips to coaches.

5. The Mental Aspect: Don't underestimate the mental aspect of your sport. Use the extra year to study your sport and understand its nuances.

Remember, many professional athletes take gap years and come back stronger than ever, so it's definitely possible, but it does require commitment, discipline, and careful planning.