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Over 53 percent of Grand View students play a sport, according to Director of Admissions, Ryan Thompson. Grand View boasts 23 athletics teams, and each comes with its own set of rules and expectations. A good majority of students believe
it is difficult to strike a balance between academics and athletics, but they have figured out ways to manage it. Whether using planners, electronic reminders or colorful pens, every student-athlete has developed his
or her own habits to make life a little easier.

Although student-athletes are often able to prioritize between sports and school, some said their coaches occasionally don’t have the same priorities. Head bowling coach Melody Felton said she doesn’t think this applies to her.

“I believe when students realize that academics come first, it helps make them well rounded and perform better in their sport,” Felton said.

Felton also reminds her players as much as possible that they are at Grand View for academics first.

Some athletes, however, said their coaches don’t act accordingly to make that prioritization clear.

“Practice dates and times are too uncompromising and should be based around the individual’s class schedule,” said Rileigh Fagan, bowler. “I have a 45-minute break in between classes to go practice.”

Sometimes student-athletes have to make sacrifices in order to make it to a specific sport-related activity on time.

“I believe practice every day is a perfect amount for a college athlete, but our lifting schedule is too tricky. I have to go to lifting instead of eating a meal during my busiest day,” said Karina Johnson, a track and field athlete.

Although, these students do receive money for what they do. Many said their scholarship benefits are insufficient. They feel that coaches unfairly distribute scholarships; the students said they also believe the amount should be based solely on skill so that there is no favoritism. Felton explained that athletic scholarships are based on how much one receives for academics, from FAFSA, and they may also depend on school guidelines, which could set limitations.

Sometimes it is just not enough; student-athletes often have to look for other jobs for financial support throughout the year. Collins said she believes the bosses here on campus are more flexible than out in the community because they know school should come first. Amanda Duplan, bowler, said even the most flexible jobs can be too much when added to school and academics.

In the end, college is tough for everyone. But when the going gets tough, student-athletes conquer their studies in order to do what they love.