How to Navigate Collegiate Swimming: Tips from Will Pelton of University of California, Berkeley
If you are hoping to be a collegiate athlete, or just an avid swimming fan, and want to know more about the nitty-gritty of getting into a D1 program, you're in the right place. Will Pelton, a recent UC Berkeley graduate, shared with us his insights and experiences as he went through this process—a journey filled with determination and proactive efforts that many aspiring college athletes (like you!) will find valuable!
How Will Pelton Started
Will Pelton’s love for swimming began in Baltimore, Maryland, where he trained with the North Baltimore Aquatic Club—which is famously associated with Michael Phelps.
Growing up in a family deeply rooted in swimming, Will was inspired by his siblings and parents, all of whom were swimmers. His commitment and talent in events like the 100 backstroke, 100 butterfly, and 200 backstroke paved the way for his collegiate swimming career.
Despite initial challenges gaining attention from UC Berkeley, Will's determination never wavered, and his proactive approaches eventually led to his successful recruitment.
How To Ace The Recruitment Process
Like any competitive recruitment process, getting into a college swimming program requires you to be proactive and advocate for yourself. Will emphasized the importance of putting yourself out there rather than waiting to be discovered.
Here are some key points to keep in mind:
1.
Always take the initiative. If you want to stand out, reach out to coaches directly instead of being complacent in waiting to be noticed. Remember, being proactive is key!
2.
Write cold emails.
Will actually sent a cold email to the head coach at UC Berkeley and they responded within a day—pretty simple effort, but it became something crucial to his recruitment.
3. Express genuine interest. A huge factor of a successful application is your authenticity and genuine interest in entering a specific program and institution. If they can feel that you truly have your heart and mind committed to them, you already have a strong application.
4. Understand the timeline. As you reach out and express interest, also ensure that you are aware of key dates—like the timeline when coaches can actually contact athletes officially.
5. Be prepared. Have a portfolio ready to share with the coaches!
6. Persevere. Stay determined and continue following up on your application, even if initial responses may seem unfavorable.
Making Use of SwimCloud
SwimCloud has become a game-changer for aspiring college swimmers—and Will swears by it.
This handy platform tracks swim times and gets them in front of collegiate coaches, giving a clear picture of an athlete’s performance. Will shared how SwimCloud helped him keep track of his progress and made it easier for coaches to see his potential. One of the best features is how SwimCloud automatically logs swim times from different meets, ensuring everything is accurate and reliable.
Keeping your profile up-to-date on SwimCloud and ensuring your best times are visible can greatly boost your chances of getting noticed. You can also compare your times with other collegiate athletes, giving you a clear sense of where you stand and what you need to work on.
How To Balance Academics and Athletics
Trying to juggle the demands of both academics and athletics can be a stressful experience, but with the right guidance and tools it can definitely turn into something inspirational and successful.
Here are some things to consider:
- Choose the Right School
Opt for one that values both athletics and academics so you get the best of both worlds. For instance, Will chose UC Berkeley because of its outstanding athletic program and strong academic reputation. Finding a school that supports both can ensure you have the resources and encouragement to excel in both areas. - Work on Your Time Management
It's true what they say—time management is key! Create a schedule that will allow you to accommodate training, studying, and rest. By planning your time wisely, you can meet both academic and athletic commitments without feeling overwhelmed. - Seek Academic Support
Always maximize the resources provided to you by the school in terms of academic support—hop on those tutoring sessions, join study groups, and consult with academic advisors to help you stay on top of your coursework. - Communicate
If there's one thing you should never underestimate, it's communication. Always strive to keep your coaches and professors informed about your schedule and provide a heads-up for any potential conflicts. This transparency will help you find solutions that accommodate both your academic and athletic needs. - Stay Flexible
Be prepared to adapt your plans when necessary. Injuries or unexpected academic challenges may require you to adjust your schedule.
Explore Other Interests
Take advantage of opportunities to explore subjects outside your major or sport—engaging in diverse activities can enrich your college experience and help you discover new passions! Remember, a well-rounded education can open up new possibilities and enhance personal growth.
Aim for Holistic Growth
Even as a busy student athlete, focusing on developing yourself as a whole person is something you'll be thankful for in the future. Always try to participate in extracurricular activities, build relationships, and take care of your mental and physical health. Achieving this balance can help contribute to your long-term success—you'll be more prepared for your life after graduation!
Reach Out To StrivePath
At StrivePath, we’re here to help student-athletes reach their dreams. We start by getting to know each student’s unique strengths and goals through an initial assessment. From there, we create a personalized academic and personal development plan tailored just for them.
Our services cover everything from college admissions preparation to academic planning, career planning, and personal growth. We offer regular meetings, involve parents, and provide ongoing support through workshops and resources. Our aim is to offer comprehensive guidance every step of the way.
Let us help you shape a brighter future and achieve your goals. Contact us today to start your journey toward success!
