How do you talk to coaches about college?

[jenniffir]

Well i would like to start off by telling you that i participate in AGA, which has no compulsory levels but rather set level by score going from junior prep 1-5 (here there are no require ments but you are only allowed to compete As and Bs), junior 6-10, and junior, senior, and pre-elite. for more info this is their website, and i can answer more questions. AGA - Home

Now on to my question. While understanding that i have a slim chance at going to college considering that i am currently a freshman and competing in a smaller gymnastics organization, i have a very weak chance of doing gymnatics in college, or maybe i have a great chance that i why i need to talk to my coach but i am unsure of how to do this. Im worried about getting told a vague answer of "you can do anything you set your mind to". Which in my mind means i dont have a chance at a division 3 college, which is really what im setting my heart on.

So how do i go about asking my coach about college gymnastics, what it takes to get there, what i need to do, and if he thinks i can make it?

P.S. a conference which includes my parents is really out of the question as they really dont care is i quit tomorro, they would actually be happy.

Thanks in advance

 

[coachcasie]

Hi Jennifir,

The way you asked here on the forum is perfectly fine. Your coach knows your abilities more than anyone else, sometimes even you and will give you a straight answer. He/she should help you set realistic goals in terms of what programs would work for you.

When considering my school, a gymnastics program was right at the top of my list of priorities. But then I had to consider, costs, distance and what programs they offered academically to see if it was right for me. A D3 school doesn't give scholarships nor does an Ivy League School like where I was accepted.

Turns out I started college at age 24, when I had been out of the gym for almost 6 years. The school I went to did not have a NCAA college team, yet rather a club with NIAGC. They also compete against different schools, men and women, its more relaxed and heck of a lot of fun. Even some of those schools that do have a reputable NCAA team have an NIAGC team as well. There is no try-out, no stress on making a team, yet I was surrounded by the sport I love so much and the people involved we just like me! Check out their club list NAIGC

I hope this sheds light on your problem and shows you that there is gymnastics in every step in life's journey weather it be high level competition or just for fun.