In the United States, it is not uncommon for prospective athletes to get scouted by a college team recruiter during a game or match on the field. It is up to the athlete to decide if they will “go pro” or pursue a non-athletic career through their bachelor’s degree. On the other hand, in Europe, children that hope to be soccer players either get recruited by a youth coach of a professional soccer team or audition to get accepted to an academy. Accepted members are coached and trained to either get called up to the first team and start their professional career or transfer to a different team where they are more likely to get more minutes alongside attending school. Those pursuing solo sports might get assistance from coaches from private institutions or strive to appear in as many competitions as they can. Although all systems have their pros and cons, there are many benefits to the current college student athlete system that is used in the United States. 

Primarily, it reduces the physical and mental burdens placed on young athletes. Many athletes start training at an early age, as building skills takes long-term and consistent effort. In alternative systems, children aged 6-12 years old are navigating the entire professional journey on their own by having to train enough to be at the pro-level. They gather financial support and coaching resources, make appearances at competitions and, in the case of team sports, search for teams and sign contracts. As a result, they are more likely to be overwhelmed and suffer from high pressure, burn out and spend too much of their time training and practicing. Even worse, children are more susceptible to abuse from parents and coaches than adults and may be left with life-long trauma, such as excessive perfectionism or low self-worth. Despite certain benefits, such as allowing them to start their career at a young age, the cost oftentimes outweighs the benefit because it puts pressure on the athletes to compete with others their entire lives, deal with spotlight and criticism and struggle to stay disciplined due to the fame and prosperity when they are too young to handle it. It puts a lot of the burden on the parents as well, as it is their responsibility to find good resources and coaching, provide financial support and assistance. The current college athlete system postpones the pressure to take the profession seriously. While students are participating in team sports at the high school level, they are able to gain experience with dedication and commitment, navigate through strenuous training and take ownership of their academic performance to establish a balance. High school athletes are able to improve and enjoy their performance in sports because much of their motivation is intrinsic.

 Secondarily, it promotes exercise in everyday life and fosters more opportunities. In the current college admissions system, where one’s athletic abilities are as appreciated as their academic ability, people are more motivated to participate in sports, which can provide an outlet of decompression from the stresses of academics. Even if they do not pursue a career or get athletic scholarships, exercise is strongly encouraged for its diverse benefits, such as reduced risk of mental health disorders, better academic performance, prevention of severe illnesses and building a healthy physique. It also helps young students build important skills such as teamwork, discipline and leadership that are necessary for future career pathways. With colleges acknowledging their applicant’s skill in sports and providing athletic scholarships, more students are open to the opportunity for higher education and athletic success. The benefit extends beyond college admissions. 

Although the best case scenario is where all student athletes achieve their career aspirations, there are unforeseen circumstances where it may not be possible, such as delayed progress, failure to survive the competition or injuries. In this case, athletes will be forced to look for alternate career pathways. By not having their beloved sport to come back to, finding motivation for recovery and re-assimilating into social environments may become more difficult and discouraging. Because both high school and college sports teams require students to demonstrate certain levels of academic accomplishment, students are more likely to pay attention to academic progress as well. During the process, they are exposed to people with various backgrounds, career aspirations and lifestyles instead of isolating themselves or only associating with teammates and coaches. As a result, they are able to have a more comprehensive outlook on life and be more adept to society.

Of course, college sports are still criticized as they can put too much pressure on students to handle numerous responsibilities. However, they can also foster an atmosphere where students are evaluated based on academic accomplishments, providing resources for their career without putting too much pressure on the young athlete. In this way, students can be prepared for unforeseen circumstances in which they cannot continue their athletic career.