Coach Marc Nolan explains why freshman year is the most important and misunderstood year for high school athletes, focusing on the sudden jump in speed, size, and expectations when moving from middle school to high school.
He outlines practical steps: prioritize movement mechanics over raw power, build strong study habits and a four-year academic plan, film for self-assessment, play multiple sports, and learn communication and resilience.
Parents should shift from manager to guide—encourage independence, monitor academics and social media, and avoid treating freshman year as a recruiting or exposure period.
Treat freshman year as the foundation for athletic and academic future success; get the basics right now to avoid regrets later.
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