Every high school athlete dreams of playing in college someday. For most athletes, the default setting when they think about college sports is the NCAA Division 1 level. Unfortunately, the D1 level is so competitive that not all athletes can make it there. Furthermore, some athletes may not qualify academically for some D1 programs, while others may need an additional year or two of development.
However, just because an athlete may not be ready or able to compete at the division 1 level does not mean that their options for competing at the collegiate level are ending.
What is the NAIA?
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics is an alternative sports governing body to the NCAA. The NAIA focuses more on balancing academics and competition. If you are part of the top 2% of athletes whose primary goal is to play sports professionally, the NCAA is your most logical course. However, if you are more focused on playing opportunities, program size, or more flexible scholarship opportunities, the NAIA should be one of your top choices.
Why Consider a JUCO?
JUCO is a handy abbreviation that refers to a junior college or a community college. Oftentimes, these institutions can be looked down on or seen as inferior in comparison to other four-year schools. In reality, junior colleges are fantastic options for athletes who may need additional time to develop, are unsure which direction they want to take academically, or lack immediate scholarship opportunities.
If you are living in Europe and looking for a camp this summer come to Biel, Switzerland on the 20th of August.
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