105. Women's Soccer Student-Athletes: Delaney Brown, Univ of Miami and Berkley Mape, The Ohio State Univ

In this episode, Justin Chezem, head coach of Christopher Newport University men’s soccer and I welcome 2 women’s soccer student-athletes.  Delaney Brown just completed her career at the University of Miami and Berkley Mape is in her first year at the Ohio State University.  Thank you to Asia Mape of I Love to Watch You Play and Chris Brown of Student Athlete NIL for helping to make this happen!

Summary

They reflect on the impact of early commitments and the importance of mental and physical preparation. The conversation also highlights the differences between youth soccer and college soccer, as well as the significance of overcoming challenges and seeking support from loved ones. The conversation explores the challenges and experiences of college athletes, focusing on mental health, identity, and life beyond sports. The athletes discuss the importance of finding the good in difficult times and leaning on relationships and support systems. They also reflect on the role of mental health in sports and the need for athletes to have outlets outside of their teams. The conversation highlights the process of discovering one's identity beyond being an athlete and offers advice on making the most of off-time. Additionally, the athletes discuss career paths and opportunities, as well as the impact of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals.

Takeaways

The recruiting process for college athletes can be challenging, and it is important to take the time to make informed decisions about the right fit for both academics and athletics.

Early commitments in youth sports can lead to unforeseen challenges and may not always result in the desired college experience.

The transition from high school to college athlete requires mental and physical preparation, as the level of play and expectations increase significantly.

Facing adversity and seeking support from loved ones can help athletes overcome challenges and continue to pursue their passion for the sport. Find the good in difficult times and focus on the positive aspects of your experience as a college athlete.

Build strong relationships and lean on your support system for guidance and reassurance.

Prioritize mental health and seek professional help when needed. It's important to have someone outside of your team to talk to.

Explore your identity beyond being an athlete and engage in activities and hobbies outside of your sport.

Make the most of your off-time by participating in other campus activities and pursuing personal interests.

Prepare for life after college sports by considering career paths and opportunities.

Take advantage of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals to create additional income and build your personal brand.

02:20 Transitioning from Playing to Post-Playing Life

04:26 Recruiting Process and Commitment Decisions

06:31 The Impact of Early Commitments

10:06 The Transformation from High School to College Athlete

13:30 Berkeley's Recruiting Story

16:21 The Importance of Mental Preparation

20:59 Delaney's College Soccer Experience

24:11 Overcoming Challenges and Regrets

26:29 Facing Adversity and Seeking Support

29:04 Finding the Good in Difficult Times

30:09 The Importance of Relationships and Support Systems

33:53 The Role of Mental Health in Sports

38:38 Identity Beyond Sports

41:44 Making the Most of Off-Time

45:09 Transitioning to Life After College Sports

48:33 Exploring Career Paths and Opportunities

50:13 The Impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Deals