For many high school athletes, the dream of playing at the collegiate level represents the next step in their athletic, academic, and personal journeys. But what actually changes when athletes leave high school sports behind and step into college athletics? While the competition may look more impressive, the biggest differences go far beyond the field.
For Seattle Prep athletes, the transition is not just about competing at a higher level. It is about adapting to an entirely new lifestyle.
One of the most noticeable shifts is the intensity of competition, Malie Chamberland ‘23,who is now playing soccer at the University of Washington, described how the game itself evolves at the collegiate level. “The biggest difference has been the overall rigor of the sport… especially the speed of play from club to the college level.” Chamberland said. Not only does the intensity of the competition shift, but also innocuous things that you would never suspect become so important. “Smaller details, like nutrition and recovery - I have to focus on much more.” Chamberland said.
This increased intensity is something many athletes do anticipate, but reality often exceeds expectations. Delaney Meehan ‘25,who plays soccer at Middlebury College, emphasized how the competitive environment changed. “Everyone was one of the best players on their high school team, so the competition is much higher,” Meehan explained. Not only is there a commitment expected of all college students, but there is also the increased commitment for what it takes to simultaneously be an athlete. Meehan played Soccer and Lacrosse at Prep and went from daily practices 5 days a week with games weaved in, to “more frequent practices, training, and travel”. Not only has the athletic intensity increased, but also the commitment expectations of schoolwork.
As the level of play rises, so does the structure of daily life. College athletes follow tight scheduled routines balancing academics and athletics. Chamberland ’23 described her days as “pretty structured,” with classes, meetings, and training, often followed by additional commitments. Meehan ’25 added that practices, workouts, and film fill most of her days, with preseason including “double practice days,” turning what was once after school practice into a full day commitment.
Despite the high demands, one thing will always remain the same: community. Chamberland ’23 emphasized “the importance of team culture and the closeness you build with your teammates,” which helps athletes get adjusted quickly.
Athletes also see a shift in their relationship with their sport. “My love for my sport has definitely grown… it really shapes my routine, mindset, and goals,” Meehan ’25 said, while giving advice to students “You’re choosing a college experience as a whole, not just a team”.
For current Seattle Prep seniors preparing for the next step, the transition brings “excitement about playing, it’s been a dream and goal since I was a little kid and I am just super excited to work hard for a starting spot and play the sport I love!” Ezra Maul 26’ said.
Similarly, “While I have absolutely loved playing with my best friends from when I started playing to know, I am also insanely excited to join a new team from whom I can learn a lot from.” Pearl Steele 26’
As both look ahead, their perspectives highlight the difference between expectation and reality.
The transition to college athletics is more than just competing at a higher level. It is a shift in lifestyle, responsibility, and identity, bringing both great challenges and great rewards to student-athletes.
