Assumptions toward College Athletes and Academics

Seth Reeves

There is a norm that has drifted across many college campuses across the country for many years that college athletes do not care about academics. They are all just there for there sport and that's it. Many students get upset because they assume that the only reason why athletes are at their university is because they can throw a ball well or run fast. There are many assumptions when it comes to athletes and their academics, but I wish to clarify some of them, and try to let everyone know what a typical student-athlete goes through.

Many people do not realize how tough a college athlete's life can be. There is a NCAA rule that states that there can only be 20 hours of offical practice for college teams a week (Click here to learn more about student-athletes). However, in a study, college athletes have reported spending an average of 40+ hours a week practicing, preparing, or playing their sport. Now, most of the extra hours are probably done individually, but that is what separates good from great. So while college athletes are spending as many hours a week as they would a job, they also have to spend 15 hours a week in class plus the time it takes to study. Many students do not actually realize how demanding it can be while being an athlete in college.

Also, a lot of the assumptions that are made across college campuses are that athletes don't care about their school work or grades. Although, the truth is that a lot of athletes do really care. However, there are always the few who don't, but I think there are just as many students who don't try in class as there are some athletes who do not put forth a valient effort.

In conclusion, there are many assumptions made towards college athletes, but I propose one thing for students and observers to consider before making their opinion. I believe that no one should judge any athlete before getting to know them. Many will find not only a love for their sport, but also an interest and desire to learn just like any other student at a university.