JCCC Women’s Soccer Player Ansley Seevers.

JCCC’s athletic program is one of determination, grit, and focus. Our program prides itself on its extensive track record of 12 national championships, 24 runner-ups, and 108 Top 5 finishes. Our coaching staff does an excellent job of bringing in talent from all over Kansas and Missouri, and even nationally. But, what does it really mean to be a student athlete at JCCC, and is it really as easy as it seems? 

In all conferences and divisions, college student athletes have a lot on their plate, and it can be difficult to get adjusted to the college dynamic after high school. College athletics are faster paced, more intense, and put down a lot more pressure on athletes, as the stakes are higher than they are in high school. College also requires tuition, so many athletes may also feel pressure to perform well enough to obtain scholarships for future seasons. It’s a heavy load, balancing practice, games, homework, exams, and personal life/hobbies all at once. 

“You’re getting pressure from your teachers, your coaches, and you’re putting pressure on yourself… you just feel like you’re under a weight,” former JCCC Women’s Soccer player, Ansley Seevers said. “I would say that’s the hardest wall to get over.” 

There has been extensive research into the causes of student athletes’ mental health concerns, and not surprisingly, it appears academics are the number one culprit, according to Chris Redford in his article Student Athletes Report Fewer Mental Health Concerns. Don’t let that title fool you, as the article includes substantial information and outlooks into student athletes’ and their mental well-being, and what may be true for most, isn’t always true for all. 

A common misconception Seevers believes exists is that student-athletes receive “special treatment” and aren’t held to the same standards as the common student. When in reality, they have expectations to meet with their professors, coaches, and even themselves. 

“I would be anxious about my grades, and then I would be anxious when my grade would change, and then I was anticipating what my coaches were gonna say about the grades,” Seevers said. 

With the added stress that student athletes have piled up on them, it’s important to have an understanding support system. 

“Having another place to feel like you belong somewhere, and have a group of people that are constantly supporting you feels pretty good,” Seevers said. 

Luckily, JCCC’s student athlete support goes beyond just that of fellow athletes. Our school grants access to a plethora of resources for all students, athletes and non-athletes alike. The second floor of the Student Center provides students with academic advisors who are available throughout the semester. 

“We also have tremendous resources in our department to assist our athletes who are struggling academically. We have a [dedicated] academic mentor,” said head women’s basketball coach, Benjamin Conrad. “…our most important contribution in this area, as a coaching staff, is to simply create [a] culture where every player knows they belong, knows they are important, understands they have value and feels a part of our family.”