17 answers
Keirsten
Student
Helena, Alabama
1
Question
Asked
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Hw do you decide if you want to go college level in that sport or if it is time to retire and what does retirement look like ?
Senior '26 here! I have twirled competitively for nine years now, and I'm having a hard time deciding if I should continue in college. On one had it could benefit me tremendously, get me scholarship money, and allow me to keep doing what I love, but on the other it can be stressful and I'm not sure if I should solely focus on school.
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17 answers
Ryan Lohin
2
Answers
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Hi Keirsten,
I think you need to consider the time commitment of continuing to play a sport in college if you want to. If you enjoy being a part of the team, still are passionate then you should consider continuing. It is a great way to meet new people while participating in something you love.
Best,
Ryan
I think you need to consider the time commitment of continuing to play a sport in college if you want to. If you enjoy being a part of the team, still are passionate then you should consider continuing. It is a great way to meet new people while participating in something you love.
Best,
Ryan
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
1060
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Hi Keirsten:
I would actually explore and see if there is a possible opportunity out there, for you to participate and play sports in college. One thing you do not want to do is have regrets, later in life, and wish that you had investigated the opportunities of playing college sports.
Sometimes, college coaches may not come to us, because they might not be aware that we are interested in exploring the possibility of playing sports in college. So, in your case, you will need to go to them.
I would look up the athletic programs of the various college and university athletic programs in your area (including NCAA Division I, Division II, Division III, NAIA and Junior Colleges). Get the addresses and names of the coaches, and learn more about their programs and the academic and financial possibilities of playing with their college teams.
Then create what is called an Athletic Resume and Cover Letter, to send to these coaches.
It is exactly what it sounds like. Except with a Job Resume and Cover Letter, you will be trying out for a job, with the Athletic Resume and Cover Letter, you will be applying and trying our for the sports team.
There are many examples of these Athletic Resume's and Cover Letters found online. Basically you will be emphasizing to the coach all about your athletic abilities, strengths, positions you played, school and state accomplishments and successes, athletic awards, future goals, and your future academic plans. Introduce the resume, and yourself, to the coach by utilizing the cover letter.
When you complete the Resume and Cover Letter, send it to the various coaches, via postal service letter, directly to their office on the college campus. You see they literally receive thousands of emails each week, but if you contact them via a written letter, it will land directly on their desk, and they are most likely going to respond and send you information on their program and about academic possibilities on their campus.
I did this with many of my advisee, over the years, with a great amount of success. College coaches do seem to enjoy getting a personal letter in the regular mail, than getting an email. It shows you are serious and are willing to make an effort in continuing your athletic career. I hope this has been helpful, Good luck in achieving your future athletic and academic goals.
I would actually explore and see if there is a possible opportunity out there, for you to participate and play sports in college. One thing you do not want to do is have regrets, later in life, and wish that you had investigated the opportunities of playing college sports.
Sometimes, college coaches may not come to us, because they might not be aware that we are interested in exploring the possibility of playing sports in college. So, in your case, you will need to go to them.
I would look up the athletic programs of the various college and university athletic programs in your area (including NCAA Division I, Division II, Division III, NAIA and Junior Colleges). Get the addresses and names of the coaches, and learn more about their programs and the academic and financial possibilities of playing with their college teams.
Then create what is called an Athletic Resume and Cover Letter, to send to these coaches.
It is exactly what it sounds like. Except with a Job Resume and Cover Letter, you will be trying out for a job, with the Athletic Resume and Cover Letter, you will be applying and trying our for the sports team.
There are many examples of these Athletic Resume's and Cover Letters found online. Basically you will be emphasizing to the coach all about your athletic abilities, strengths, positions you played, school and state accomplishments and successes, athletic awards, future goals, and your future academic plans. Introduce the resume, and yourself, to the coach by utilizing the cover letter.
When you complete the Resume and Cover Letter, send it to the various coaches, via postal service letter, directly to their office on the college campus. You see they literally receive thousands of emails each week, but if you contact them via a written letter, it will land directly on their desk, and they are most likely going to respond and send you information on their program and about academic possibilities on their campus.
I did this with many of my advisee, over the years, with a great amount of success. College coaches do seem to enjoy getting a personal letter in the regular mail, than getting an email. It shows you are serious and are willing to make an effort in continuing your athletic career. I hope this has been helpful, Good luck in achieving your future athletic and academic goals.
Connor Nicholson
Accounting
14
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Connor’s Answer
Deciding whether to pursue your sport at the college level or to step away is a deeply personal decision that depends on your passion, goals, and overall well-being. Start by honestly assessing your love for the sport—do you still feel excited to train and compete, or has it started to feel like an obligation? Consider the time and energy college athletics require, and weigh that against your academic, social, and career ambitions. Talk with coaches, mentors, and former athletes to get a realistic picture of the demands and rewards of playing at the next level. If you decide it’s time to retire, remember that “retirement” from competitive sports doesn’t mean giving up your identity as an athlete. Many find fulfillment in staying active through intramural teams, coaching, or simply playing for fun. Retirement can also open up time for new interests, leadership roles, internships, or focusing more on academics. Ultimately, the right choice is the one that aligns with your evolving interests and supports your personal growth and happiness.
From considering a career after, consider if you have a future in the sport, or if you truly are going to focus on a different career after, which is common. Even if that is the case, so many life lessons are learned from sports and employers love hiring athletes. However, you must weigh the different schools you would attend. If your options are to either attend Harvard for academics or play football at a small school, the answer may be clearer that Harvard is an obvious choice! However, if your academic options for schooling are more limited and you could attend a smarter school due to your athletic success, pursuing college athletics may be a more desirable choice for you! Weigh your options and consider which will set you up at a successful school for you to thrive and reach your goals.
From considering a career after, consider if you have a future in the sport, or if you truly are going to focus on a different career after, which is common. Even if that is the case, so many life lessons are learned from sports and employers love hiring athletes. However, you must weigh the different schools you would attend. If your options are to either attend Harvard for academics or play football at a small school, the answer may be clearer that Harvard is an obvious choice! However, if your academic options for schooling are more limited and you could attend a smarter school due to your athletic success, pursuing college athletics may be a more desirable choice for you! Weigh your options and consider which will set you up at a successful school for you to thrive and reach your goals.
Himma Indras Cenny
Proofreader/Education Consultan/English Tutor
11
Answers
Indonesia
Updated
Himma Indras’s Answer
Hi there, Senior ‘26! 👋 First of all, congrats on twirling competitively for nine years—that’s a huge accomplishment and shows dedication, discipline, and love for your sport. 💫
Deciding whether to continue twirling in college or to retire is a deeply personal decision, but here are a few things to consider that might help:
🎓 Ask Yourself These Questions:
Does twirling still make you happy most of the time, even when it’s hard or stressful?
Would a twirling scholarship significantly help you afford college?
Can you realistically balance college academics and twirling, especially in your freshman year?
Are there college teams or programs that feel like a good fit—supportive, not overly intense?
🧘 What Retirement Might Look Like:
Retirement doesn’t mean walking away forever. It could mean:
Coaching younger twirlers or mentoring new competitors.
Judging competitions.
Performing occasionally at events or exhibitions.
Simply enjoying your sport without the pressure of competing.
💡 A Hybrid Path?
Some students choose to start college with the sport, then reevaluate after the first semester or year. You don’t have to commit to all four years right away. It's okay to pivot later!
❤️ Final Thought:
Remember, whatever you decide, you're not giving up—you're choosing the path that helps you grow and thrive. Whether that’s as a student-athlete or focusing fully on your academics, both paths are valid and full of opportunity.
Wishing you peace in your decision—and all the success ahead!
Deciding whether to continue twirling in college or to retire is a deeply personal decision, but here are a few things to consider that might help:
🎓 Ask Yourself These Questions:
Does twirling still make you happy most of the time, even when it’s hard or stressful?
Would a twirling scholarship significantly help you afford college?
Can you realistically balance college academics and twirling, especially in your freshman year?
Are there college teams or programs that feel like a good fit—supportive, not overly intense?
🧘 What Retirement Might Look Like:
Retirement doesn’t mean walking away forever. It could mean:
Coaching younger twirlers or mentoring new competitors.
Judging competitions.
Performing occasionally at events or exhibitions.
Simply enjoying your sport without the pressure of competing.
💡 A Hybrid Path?
Some students choose to start college with the sport, then reevaluate after the first semester or year. You don’t have to commit to all four years right away. It's okay to pivot later!
❤️ Final Thought:
Remember, whatever you decide, you're not giving up—you're choosing the path that helps you grow and thrive. Whether that’s as a student-athlete or focusing fully on your academics, both paths are valid and full of opportunity.
Wishing you peace in your decision—and all the success ahead!
Jared Wilson
Strategy Consultant
1
Answer
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jared’s Answer
Great Question!
I was a college athlete myself and it was one of the most rewarding experiences I've ever had. The bonds that I formed with my teammates are some of the most special relationships in my life, and friendships I still carry with me today many years later. The skills in time management, learning how to dedicate yourself to a craft, and especially learning how to fail and pick yourself back up are truly invaluable lessons that I have helped me tremendously in my career. Being a student athlete was also a very difficult experience that's not for everyone though. The time commitment is massive and you will have to miss classes, exams, and especially social events for your sport. As a student athlete, you aren't just a regular student. You have a commitment to your teammates and coaches that often times will prevent you from living the stereotypical college life. Your decision to play or not to play is highly personal. You should weight everything from your ability, your love and commitment to the sport, your financial situation, to the type of school you want to go to. For me while going through the recruiting process, I was always told, "If your career ended today and you were at school X, would you still want to be attending school X?" I found this piece of advice to be extremely helpful because while it may not seem like it while your in it, your career will eventually end and you will be forced join the "real world".
Overall being a student athlete made for an extremely challenging and unique college experience, but I truly look back on it as the most rewarding experience of my life and would happily do it all over again.
I was a college athlete myself and it was one of the most rewarding experiences I've ever had. The bonds that I formed with my teammates are some of the most special relationships in my life, and friendships I still carry with me today many years later. The skills in time management, learning how to dedicate yourself to a craft, and especially learning how to fail and pick yourself back up are truly invaluable lessons that I have helped me tremendously in my career. Being a student athlete was also a very difficult experience that's not for everyone though. The time commitment is massive and you will have to miss classes, exams, and especially social events for your sport. As a student athlete, you aren't just a regular student. You have a commitment to your teammates and coaches that often times will prevent you from living the stereotypical college life. Your decision to play or not to play is highly personal. You should weight everything from your ability, your love and commitment to the sport, your financial situation, to the type of school you want to go to. For me while going through the recruiting process, I was always told, "If your career ended today and you were at school X, would you still want to be attending school X?" I found this piece of advice to be extremely helpful because while it may not seem like it while your in it, your career will eventually end and you will be forced join the "real world".
Overall being a student athlete made for an extremely challenging and unique college experience, but I truly look back on it as the most rewarding experience of my life and would happily do it all over again.
Matt Minns
Human Capital (Organization, Workforce, & Change)
8
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Matt’s Answer
Hi Keirsten!
Great question! As someone who played Division 1 sports in college, I think you should definitely consider continuing your sport at the next level. Here are some thoughts to help you decide:
- Think about how much you love the sport. Each division, whether D1, D2, D3, or Club/Intramural, offers different experiences. Only go for D1 if you're truly passionate about the sport, not just for a scholarship, as the time commitment can be intense. The other options are more manageable, though they usually don't offer scholarships.
- If you choose D1, remember that the school's athletic program will support you with resources like academic advisors, tutors, and study halls. Make sure to use these to help balance everything.
- Consider the level of schools showing interest in you. D1 is very competitive, whether you're aiming for a scholarship or walking on. If you're not getting interest from the schools you hoped for, like larger or more academically known ones, think about exploring other levels of sports. There are plenty of ways to stay connected to your sport beyond D1.
Great question! As someone who played Division 1 sports in college, I think you should definitely consider continuing your sport at the next level. Here are some thoughts to help you decide:
- Think about how much you love the sport. Each division, whether D1, D2, D3, or Club/Intramural, offers different experiences. Only go for D1 if you're truly passionate about the sport, not just for a scholarship, as the time commitment can be intense. The other options are more manageable, though they usually don't offer scholarships.
- If you choose D1, remember that the school's athletic program will support you with resources like academic advisors, tutors, and study halls. Make sure to use these to help balance everything.
- Consider the level of schools showing interest in you. D1 is very competitive, whether you're aiming for a scholarship or walking on. If you're not getting interest from the schools you hoped for, like larger or more academically known ones, think about exploring other levels of sports. There are plenty of ways to stay connected to your sport beyond D1.
Miki Akamatsu
Compliance Monitoring
7
Answers
Jericho, New York
Updated
Miki’s Answer
This is a cost-benefit analysis. How much scholarship can you get? Is it significant for your parents? What are the conditions of the scholarship? Are you enthusiastic enough about the sport to continue? If you quit next year, what will be the financial burden on your parents? Would you enter the school if it wasn't for the twirling? I know a boy who entered college with a soccer scholarship, but eventually couldn't make the starting team members. Disappointed, he moved to another college and is happy now. Life is not a rigid static line; you can change, modify, and improve it. The degree of your passion for the sport should also be part of the equation. If you now want to join the team and continue, go for it. Please dictate your life.
Frank Laptin
Sales Intern
3
Answers
Laguna Beach, California
Updated
Frank’s Answer
Hi Keirsten, I faced the same decision about becoming a college athlete, and it turned out to be a great choice. Being a college athlete can help you get into a better school and offers many benefits. Scholarships can ease financial worries, but there are other advantages too. I was nervous about making friends, but my sport helped me connect with amazing people. Working hard together turned teammates into lifelong friends. After three years, I've found a new family away from home. Being part of a team made my college experience much more enjoyable. Plus, it's exciting to say you played a sport in college. Many employers appreciate college athletes because it shows you can work well in a team, which is important in real life.
Andrew Vayda
1
Answer
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
This is my favorite question! I had the same experience of deciding whether to continue my basketball career into college, or attend a large school with more opportunities, career options, and atmosphere. Eventually, I made the decision to attend Penn State, and not pursue my athletic career any longer. While I do not regret my decision, I do always have thoughts of what my college journey would have looked like if I did decide to go to smaller school to play basketball. My question got answered very quickly, when I joined the club basketball team at Penn State. On this team, I got the opportunity to travel around the country with my teammates who I can now call great friends, while still getting to play the sport I love at a competitive level. I would recommend club sports to anyone who is struggling with this decision, as my experience with it was incredible. Please reach out to me if you have any more questions regarding this topic, as I would love to be a resource!
Sofia Papini
1
Answer
Updated
Sofia’s Answer
I found that college athletics brough me tons of new immediate friends, and a regular schedule which kept me on track. I would say give it a shot, its much easier to stop later down the line than not start immediately. Be ready to commit a solid amount of your time, but it's totally worth it.
Caitlin C
IT Consultant
7
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Caitlin’s Answer
Great question! I was in a similar situation about 10 years ago when I was thinking about playing my sport in college. I had to weigh the pros and cons to make my choice.
- Pros: getting a scholarship, continuing my passion for the sport, and making friends with teammates
- Cons: spending a lot of time on practice and travel, scheduling classes around practices, and having less time for academics
In the end, I imagined my life with and without the sport and chose to play at a Division 2 university. It allowed me to balance both my studies and my love for the game!
- Pros: getting a scholarship, continuing my passion for the sport, and making friends with teammates
- Cons: spending a lot of time on practice and travel, scheduling classes around practices, and having less time for academics
In the end, I imagined my life with and without the sport and chose to play at a Division 2 university. It allowed me to balance both my studies and my love for the game!
Jennifer Groton
Program Manager
3
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Keirsten, you have great options ahead, and both paths can lead to success. With two kids in college, I've seen both sides: one played a sport, and the other didn't, and both are doing well. Joining a team can help you make friends quickly, which is often tough in your first year. My son, who plays a sport, easily manages his time between studies and practice because he's used to it. My daughter, who didn't join a sport, took a bit longer to find her friend group but enjoyed having extra time for her assignments.
Think about your major and the demands of your first-year courses. Some fields, like engineering or architecture, might require more time and effort. If you're unsure, consider stepping back from the competitive side and focus on enjoying college. Many schools have club or dance teams where you can still twirl without the intense commitment. You could also explore teaching twirling to kids in the community or as a summer job.
Think about your major and the demands of your first-year courses. Some fields, like engineering or architecture, might require more time and effort. If you're unsure, consider stepping back from the competitive side and focus on enjoying college. Many schools have club or dance teams where you can still twirl without the intense commitment. You could also explore teaching twirling to kids in the community or as a summer job.
Margaret Yoe
Consultant
4
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Margaret’s Answer
While I was not a student athlete in college, I taught many student athletes as a teaching assistant. Based on conversations during office hours it was clear how demanding it is to balance athletic commitments, coursework, and time to socialize and still have some free time. I would suggest reaching out to athletic departments at a couple programs you’re considering applying for to see if you can connect with a current twirling student athlete to talk about their experience balancing school/athletics and get insights into the team culture at the program. Getting that ‘day in the life’ perspective may clarify whether being a student athlete aligns with the college experience you want to have, and the answer could be different depending on the culture of different programs. Wishing you all the best!
Zeejah Waseem
Strategy Solution Analyst
4
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Zeejah’s Answer
This is a very popular question students have at this stage, choosing passion vs choosing money. Deciding whether to continue twirling in college or retire is a big decision, and it’s normal to feel torn. On one hand, twirling can bring scholarship opportunities, a supportive community, and the joy of continuing a sport you love. On the other hand, balancing a demanding sport with college academics can be stressful and time-consuming. Think about what excites you most: does the idea of performing and competing still energize you, or are you ready for new challenges? Retirement doesn’t mean leaving twirling behind—you could coach, judge, or join community events. Talk with college twirlers and your family for perspective. Consider your academic goals, mental health, and long-term plans. Ultimately, there’s no right or wrong answer—choose the path that feels most fulfilling and aligns with your future vision.
Owen Cullinan
Sales Trainee Intern
4
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Owen’s Answer
I'm a college athlete going into my senior year. It's not easy and can be stressful, but I've loved it. Being an athlete has opened up career opportunities and helped me make great friends. I wouldn't change anything about my college experience. It also gives you a supportive group that understands you. Despite the stress and time commitment, the benefits are worth it.
Jai Syal, CPA
Management Consultant
3
Answers
Pasadena, California
Updated
Jai’s Answer
Hi Keirsten! Depending on the time/effort needed, it's probably possible to do both. Doing things you love can be healthy and a great supplement to your studies. There are plenty of college athletes who are successful academically and go on to fantastic careers. You don't need to know what exactly your life looks likes today, but college is a great time to explore and design the life you'd like to build. I say if you love something, design your life to include it.
Check out this summary of the book "Designing Your Lifehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuyGMVYzQyI
Jai recommends the following next steps:
Michael Holt
AI Manager/Solution Architect
2
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Keirsten,
Great question! I faced the same question going into college and it's not an easy choice. Here is my advice:
1. Think about how passionate you are about twirling. Are you ready to give it up competitively? Or still loving it and can't imagine giving it up?
2. If your answer to #1 still has you feeling passionate about continuing, then let's talk about options for different levels of commitment...
Different Levels of Commitment (most commitment to least)
1. Division 1: If you are being offered scholarship money, then I'm guessing that may be for Division 1 schools. If so, twirling will be a big time commitment (i.e., you may be tied up with twirling practice when your friends want to hang out, you will have to travel some weekends when your friends get to stay in town for big social events, etc). If twirling is still your passion, then this commitment won't feel like as much of a sacrifice in your mind (plus you'll have a built-in friend group with the twirling team).
2. Division 2/3: Scholarships might not be available at this level, but it gives you more freedom to still pursue your passion without quite as much time commitment. I fell into this bucket and loved playing Division 3 sports because everyone was doing it out of love for the game, still being serious, but without quite as much time commitment as Division 1 athletes.
3. Club: I'm not sure if club twirling is available everywhere, but this is the most casual option to stay involved. You wouldn't have to sacrifice nearly as much time but could keep going with your passion.
With all that in mind, try to make sure you're excited about the college from an academic side, too. I was able to play sports without having to sacrifice academics / going to a school I wasn't excited about attending. Hope this helps and best of luck!
Think about how passionate you are about twirling. Are you ready to give it up competitively? Or still loving it and can't imagine giving it up?
If you are still feeling passionate about continuing twirling, then decide which level of commitment you want.
Ensure you are excited about the school from an academic side as well.
Great question! I faced the same question going into college and it's not an easy choice. Here is my advice:
1. Think about how passionate you are about twirling. Are you ready to give it up competitively? Or still loving it and can't imagine giving it up?
2. If your answer to #1 still has you feeling passionate about continuing, then let's talk about options for different levels of commitment...
Different Levels of Commitment (most commitment to least)
1. Division 1: If you are being offered scholarship money, then I'm guessing that may be for Division 1 schools. If so, twirling will be a big time commitment (i.e., you may be tied up with twirling practice when your friends want to hang out, you will have to travel some weekends when your friends get to stay in town for big social events, etc). If twirling is still your passion, then this commitment won't feel like as much of a sacrifice in your mind (plus you'll have a built-in friend group with the twirling team).
2. Division 2/3: Scholarships might not be available at this level, but it gives you more freedom to still pursue your passion without quite as much time commitment. I fell into this bucket and loved playing Division 3 sports because everyone was doing it out of love for the game, still being serious, but without quite as much time commitment as Division 1 athletes.
3. Club: I'm not sure if club twirling is available everywhere, but this is the most casual option to stay involved. You wouldn't have to sacrifice nearly as much time but could keep going with your passion.
With all that in mind, try to make sure you're excited about the college from an academic side, too. I was able to play sports without having to sacrifice academics / going to a school I wasn't excited about attending. Hope this helps and best of luck!
Michael recommends the following next steps: