Student Athletes

Tom Giotto earned a scholarship as a defensive back on the Penn State football team.  However, this is not the reason that we know who he is today.  I do not know how many student athletes are enrolled in this class, but I assume there must be some.  Long ago, I came to terms with the fact that my athletic career has ended.  If I was a student athlete, I would look at Tom Giotto as a reminder that there is life after sports.  At this point in time, it may seem as though nothing is as important as your sport.  Mr. Giotto even admitted that he did not take his academics as seriously as he would have liked during his time as a student athlete.  According to a recent NCAA study, less than 2% of collegiate student athletes make the transition to the professional level.  This statistic in itself should be a motivating force.  The odds of making it to the next level are stacked against you. Therefore, it is very important to keep your future in mind.  Even top prospects are not guaranteed to have a professional career because there are so many variables that could affect the final outcome.  If you are a scholarship athlete it is imperative that you do not waste the opportunity that has been given to you.  Or, should I say, you have earned.  Take the time to learn the information and develop the skills that will help you succeed off of the field, court, rink, or track.