Balancing the Athlete-Student Life at Huron

Transitioning from high school to university is a huge step in anyone’s life, but doing it as a student-athlete brings its own unique challenges and rewards. For me, making the switch from wrestling to track and field as a first year student has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life.

For most of my athletic career, I was a wrestler. Wrestling taught me discipline and grit, but after years on the mat, I decided to take on a new challenge with track and field. The transition wasn’t just about learning a new sport—it was about adapting to a different mindset, a new team dynamic, and a fresh way of pushing my body and mind to their limits. Track and field brought a renewed sense of joy to my athletic journey. Being part of a cohesive group with shared goals has been inspiring. My teammates are supportive, driven, and genuinely fun to be around, making practices and competitions something to look forward to. This year holds even more significance as it’s our head coach’s final season. We’re rallying as a team to try and secure U SPORTS titles—a fitting send-off for someone who has poured so much into this program. There’s a sense of urgency and camaraderie that comes with knowing we’re competing not just for ourselves but also for a legacy. It’s motivating to push harder in every throw, lift, and run because we all want to make this season unforgettable.

But let’s talk about the mental health side of being a student-athlete. Balancing academics, training, competitions, and personal life can feel overwhelming at times. Switching sports added another layer of complexity. There were moments of self-doubt— and still are times I spend wondering if I can excel in something so different or if I’ll ever reach the level I want. What has helped me most was embracing the process and leaning on my mentors, teammates and coaches for guidance. Open conversations about struggles and successes made a huge difference. It’s a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical training.

For students thinking about getting involved in athletics, my advice is simple: go for it. Whether you’re transitioning to a new sport or joining a team for the first time, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Find a sport or activity that excites you, and surround yourself with people who uplift and challenge you. University is the perfect time to explore new passions, and being part of a team can make your experience unforgettable.

To any student-athletes out there struggling with the demands of their dual roles, know that it’s okay to ask for help. Your mental well-being matters, and there’s strength in reaching out. Take things one step at a time, celebrate small victories, and trust in your ability to adapt and thrive. Looking back, the decision to switch sports and embrace this new chapter at university has been one of the best I’ve ever made. It’s not just about winning titles or hitting personal bests; it’s about growing as an individual and being part of something bigger than yourself. Here’s to making the most of this season and the memories.