If you are a student at STA, you know that there are many students involved in at least one of the sports our school provides, or maybe even multiple. It might look easy to attend school and participate in a school sport, but that is far from the truth. Student-athletes have to have good time management, be dedicated and disciplined, and have mental toughness. These are just a few of the many requirements a student-athlete needs to be successful in not only their sport, but in all aspects of life.
There are many ways to manage time as a student athlete. One way is a method called the Eisenhower Matrix, which cuts down your work into 4 separate pieces founded by the 34th president of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower. As explained by ExactSports, First, recognize the work as urgent or not urgent. This will help distinguish the order in which assignments need to be completed based on most important to least important. Then, grab an agenda to properly manage your time, and create a study group with friends that you know will keep you accountable. Procrastination also plays a big part in balancing being a student-athlete. Sometimes, you might put off the tasks for another day, however a game might be prolonged that day, leaving that assignment to be put off even longer. Making sure to stay on task at all times and using your time wisely through a method, like the Eisenhower Matrix, will greatly improve the work-life balance for a student athlete.
Being an athlete also requires the right nutrition in order to perform at your best. When eating the proper nutrients, it greatly improves performance on the field as a student or as an athlete. Proteins, carbohydrates, iron, fiber, and so much more are needed for the body to function.
Students also need to surround themselves with the right friends that won’t distract them from their work ethic. Working in a quiet, calm environment can let people finish their work efficiently and with better quality. Removing distractions like video games and phone time help students finish their work on time and with less stress.
Sophomore William Billings Jr. who plays JV football, says that “I try to complete my homework during the school hours so that I do not have that much homework when I get home from practice.” STA sophomore David Cancilla who plays JV soccer stated, “I organize myself and make sure to use my time wisely in order to grow as an athlete and as a student.” After interviewing some student-athletes at STA, it is evident that many student-athletes prioritize their time to make sure they balance their school life and athletic life. This will help them to complete their work on time, while excelling in their sport.
