The greatest life lessons I learned came to me while playing basketball at Youngstown State University. College athletics were grueling, time consuming, physically, socially, emotionally and mentally draining. Add academics and it was like having two full time jobs . The lessons were through learning to address the challenges while making the most of my opportunities. Today these lessons are still applied.

Many people have asked me what to expect when playing college sports. This book is a compilation of stories recorded directly from interviews with college athletes, athletic directors, high school and college coaches, parents, high school guidance counselors, college academic advisors, trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, and on campus support staff. These stories reflect their experiences and provide insight into the life of a student-athlete. It is my hope this book will better prepare high school athletes for success as they pursue their dream of playing the sports they love at the collegiate level.