So You Want to Be an Athlete? Here’s What to Know, Plan, and Expect
A Real Talk Guide for Aspiring Athletes Who Want to Win—On and Off the Field
Dreaming of becoming a star athlete? You’re not alone. Thousands of young people across the country lace up their cleats, hit the courts, and train hard every day with that same goal. At the AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation, we’ve seen firsthand how powerful that dream can be. But we’ve also seen how critical it is to understand the full picture.
What to Know: Talent Isn’t Enough
Let’s be clear: having skills is just the beginning.
Grades Matter. If you want to play in high school, college, or beyond, your academics have to be solid. Coaches recruit student-athletes, not just athletes.
Character Counts. Coaches, teams, and sponsors look at how you carry yourself. Are you respectful? Are you coachable? Do you lead by example?
It’s a Business. At the next level, sports are a business. That means contracts, agents, expectations, and responsibilities. Start learning how to navigate that now.
How to Plan: Set Goals and Work Backward
If you want to succeed, you need a game plan—and not just for your sport.
Set short- and long-term goals. Want to start varsity next year? Play D1? Go pro? Write it down. Then figure out what it takes to get there.
Train your body AND your mind. Fitness, nutrition, rest, and mental health are key. Athletes who don’t take care of their whole selves burn out early.
Build a support squad. Surround yourself with people who want to see you win—coaches, teachers, mentors, and friends who push you to do better.
What to Expect: It’s Not All Highlights
The journey to becoming a standout athlete is filled with wins, but also with losses, injuries, doubt, and hard days.
You’ll need discipline. Early mornings, extra reps, and late-night homework after games. You have to show up even when you’re tired.
You may get overlooked. It happens. But if you stay consistent, keep grinding, and focus on growth—you’ll get your moment.
You will grow. Win or lose, every challenge will shape you. Use every moment to become the best version of yourself.
Final Thought: You’re More Than an Athlete
Your sport is part of your identity—but it’s not your whole story. Plan for the game, but also plan for life after the game. Education, leadership, community—these things will carry you long after the final buzzer.
At the AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation, we’re committed to helping young athletes prepare not just for the next game—but for a lifetime of purpose. Because we know the best athletes aren’t just chasing stats—they’re building legacies.
Need support or guidance on your path? Learn more about the AJT Academy and how we’re helping student-athletes in Atlanta thrive on the field, in the classroom, and in their communities.