According to the NCAA website, there are 460,000 National Athletic Association student-athletes across the United States. The thought that student athletes have it easier than an average student is something that has always been talked about, but unless you have experienced being a student athlete than there’s not much to argue.
Being a student athlete definitely has it perks, but no one ever really sees or understands what happens behind the scenes. Fans are quick to judge and express their opinions about a player simply because of what they see on TV, but have no clue as to why maybe a certain athlete isn’t playing or why he is having a bad game. A lot of times people forget that athletes are human to who have feelings and emotions.
Social media plays a huge role in the sports industry which has benefitted and allowed millions of people to have easy access to stay updated with their teams. Unfortunately, there can be a lot of inappropriate and insensitive comments either indirectly or directly to a specific athlete which can potentially affect their lives.
Depression has become a common factor in a lot of athletes daily lives which has impacted how they live, perform, and even their thoughts of wanting to continue being a student athlete. Mental illness is something that is often overlooked because people think that all athletes are strong and have a strong mentality, but don’t take into consideration the potential outcomes. Suicide has increased over the years and is something that not only NCCA overlooks, but people as well.
Nothing in life comes easy and for student athletes, things can become difficult really fast. Athletes face challenges and obstacles every day, but they have goals and dreams just like everyone else.
Mind Game 