The 20 hours a week of practice time can sometimes become 30-40 when you add in the volunteer time in the weight room, training room for rehab, and reviewing game videos. College coaches are always looking to recruit better players than are currently on the team. You may have been a four-year starter in high school, but when you arrive at college your freshman and sophomore year may be spent on the bench. Be sure to find out exactly where you will fit into the program before you agree to attend. Summer training is a must for the Division I athlete.
Many coaches now request their athletes spend summers on campus training and taking classes.
High school athletes and their parents need to be aware of this concept. As a Division I athlete you may not have much time at home over the next four years. There will be academic and athletic stress to contend with no matter what level of college athletics you play, but playing at the Division I level can put added pressure on some athletes. Coaches want your time, teachers want your time, and friends want your time. You will be faced with decisions athletically, academically and socially.