In high school, I vividly remember asking myself, “Why am I not receiving any scholarship offers like my teammates?” I began to get discouraged, and my position coach encouraged me to keep working on my craft, and the scholarships offers would come. 

Lo and behold, I kept grinding and really started to focus on my craft and had a solid spring. During our spring jamboree, I scampered 60 yards down the field on the first play of the game on a spilt screen, and the rest is history. Here are three tips to help you capitalize on spring football:

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1. The 5 P’s

My coach would always tell me that proper preparation prevents poor performance. To this day, I live by this mantra, and this helped me as college scouts made their way through our halls and watched film daily. Spring football provides college coaches the opportunity to evaluate and assess your craft, so it is imperative that you are ready to present your best showing.

2. Eliminate distractions 

Like most teenage boys, I was consumed by my PlayStation when I was in high school. I would play the game so often, the fan would turn on to cool the system. However, my father challenged me to put the game down and start exercising my school books and playbook if I was serious about getting to the next level to play NCAA Division I football. 

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I took his advice and eliminated that distraction and I was able to see dividends in my life and my recruitment. What will you eliminate during spring ball in your pursuit to excellence? 

3.Faith/belief 

There will be times where you feel like no one is witnessing your progression. I felt that way at times. However, it is in those moments when you need to connect with your support group: coaches, parents, community supporters, and other allies to help get you to the finish line. 

There is nothing like someone believing in you, but you can never stop believing in yourself and your dreams. This spring, make it apparent that you are on a mission to receive offers and capitalize on every rep you will receive to showcase the value you will bring to someone’s roster. If you apply these three principles, you will be where you envision yourself for years to come. 

Work hard. Be great.

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Ashton Henderson was a four-year letterman at defensive back for Michigan State University as well as an honor student and co-author with former teammate Travis Key of “Beyond the Gridiron: How to successfully transition into collegiate football,” a detailed account of what it takes to be an NCAA Division I football player and successful in life. To learn more about their mission and purchase your copy today, visit: www.beyondthegridironllc.com