Risking injury in hopes for a scholarship offer at a summer camp

I recently had an opportunity to speak with an athlete who has been going through the football recruiting process.  This player is talented and has received a number of different accolades during his two years already at the varsity level on his high school team.  During the summer, he has been to two camps already.

When asked if he was attending any other camps, he said he didn’t want to do anything to get hurt so that he would be ready for the season.  Is this kid just a diehard high school player who will do anything for his prep team or could he be someone who really just doesn’t want to risk an injury?

First off, let me say that I don’t believe this athlete is ducking competition.  He is very talented and has performed well at a Nike Camp and an in-state camp as well.  While he may not end up being a Division I football player, he is plenty talented and I expect he will get a scholarship somewhere or another.

So maybe he really is using the summer to get ready with his teammates and avoid injuries attending camps.  He already had a chance to showcase his skills in front of one coaching staff and they are fully aware of his abilities.  There may be little use in attending others.

Some athletes also decide to skip the camp circuit entirely so that they can train with their team.  While I think some coaches try to push this upon their players, I don’t think it is the best thing for them.  Wouldn’t it be better for the athletes to travel a little and get a chance to compete against new competition?

But going back to the question, I think it is dumb to use that as an excuse.  If the athlete doesn’t want to attend camps, fine.  There is nothing wrong with that.  He may have a busy schedule packed with team workouts and team building activities that he is unable to attend.

As far as an injury goes, he could get hurt getting out of bed in the morning.  If you stay at your high school, lift, run, and play basketball, the athlete could easily get hurt during each of those times (and that includes the drive to the high school).  Things happen in life that you can’t control.  If you get hurt during it, then the key may be being more careful beforehand.

If all athletes were afraid of injuries, then there would be no use for camps.  Injuries are something to prepare your body to avoid.  When they strike, do what you can to rehab it and get back as soon as possible.  But if you really want to be recruiting by Division I colleges, going to camps is a must, regardless of your worry level for injuries.

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