The Three Things You Need to Consider Before Your Freshman Season
September 2025
The season is in full swing, and college is right around the corner. Every year, thousands of aspiring student-athletes leap into college, but are you truly prepared? It's not just about what you do on the field. It's about the bigger picture.
The Collaborative Village believes a successful journey is built on three essential pillars:
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Preparation: Your success starts long before you step on campus. This isn't just about your physical skills; it's about being mentally and academically ready for the demands of college sports. A true athlete masters the playbook in the 4 primary corners of the program.
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The Right Fit: It’s not just about what school wants you, but what school is the best fit for you. Can you envision yourself holistically at this institution, maximizing everything it has to offer? We’ll show you how to look beyond the logo and find a program whose culture and values align with your own. The right fit is where you'll be supported to grow in every aspect of your life beyond the game.
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Character: Your character will be tested more than ever before, I can promise you that, but how will you respond? How will you show up? We’ll explore why integrity is the ultimate differentiator and how your actions both on and off the field can either build or break the locker room.
Ready to build your foundation for success? The Collaborative Village is here to help.
Thinking About the Transfer Portal? Read This First.
The college football landscape has changed. With the rise of the transfer portal, it's easier than ever to pack your bags and look for a new home. But before you do, we’ve got some hard questions for you to consider.
I've seen too many athletes make a move without first looking in the mirror. Before blaming the program or the coaches, take a hard look at yourself.
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Are you a Contributor or a Consumer? We’ll challenge you to be honest about your role on the team. Is this a take, take, take relationship? Are you walking around expecting a certain level of treatment but not upholding the standards of the program? Or, are you a true Contributor? Do you have a "coach me, coach" attitude? Are you listening to everything your nutritionist and strength coach are telling you? Are you showing up early because you know to be on time is to be late?
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Accountability Issues and the Mirror Test: This is about looking at yourself and facing the truth. Before you blame everyone else, can you honestly say, as a student-athlete on this team, "I did all I could do?" Your success is tied directly to your level of commitment and accountability.
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The Problem May Follow You: The reality is, if you can’t answer those questions effectively, the same issues will likely follow you to your next school. We want to help you understand that a change of scenery won’t fix a lack of commitment or accountability. The right fit is where your values and work ethic align with the program's culture.
Ready to get to the root of your journey and build a foundation for success? The Collaborative Village is where you can find the answers. Download our 3 Pillars PDF HERE.
For more information on The Collaborative Village, check out these articles:
The Collaborative Village: Redefining Success in College Athletics
Building a Culture of Champions: Inside Travis Taylor’s Collaborative Village
