Episode 127: Adapting to Change: Emma Schroeder on College Athletics During COVID-19

Catch a glimpse into college athletics during unprecedented times on Oak Performance Radio, your ultimate resource for athletic performance and coaching, brought to you by your host, Adam Lane! This episode delves into college athletes' challenges and triumphs amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Our guest, Emma Schroeder, a former Kent State and Eastern Illinois athlete, shares their journey of navigating recruitment, balancing academics and sports, and overcoming setbacks like injuries. Emma highlights the crucial role of resilience, adaptability, and support in achieving success in collegiate sports. They also shed light on the demanding nature of college volleyball practices and the physical and mental preparations required to excel in such a competitive environment. Emma discusses their experience adjusting to a new coaching staff at Kent State University and the uncertainties that came with it. They reflect on the learning curve and the challenge of meeting new expectations while adapting to different coaching styles. Additionally, Emma shares insights into student-athletes' considerations when transferring schools during the pandemic, shedding light on the complexities of school choice and balancing athletic programs and academic priorities. 00:00 Intro 00:15 College commitment and transfer experiences. 4:03 College volleyball recruitment and academic expectations.  10:14 College athletic recruitment process and its challenges 16:34 College basketball transfers and the decision-making process 21:57 College volleyball preparation and preseason intensity.  27:01 College volleyball preseason training, including early morning workouts and conditioning. 32:08 College basketball team's training and treatment regimen. ( 36:34 College athletics, training, and personal growth. 41:11 Athletes' maturity and dedication to training 46:06 Injury, recovery, and motivation in volleyball. 51:51 The importance of hard work and dedication in sports, particularly in the weight room 1:00:07 College athletics, burnout, and decision-making Tune in to this insightful episode to gain valuable perspectives on collegiate athletics and the resilience needed to thrive as a student-athlete during uncertain times. Connect with Emma Schoeder @_emma_schroederrrrrr @wearevcunited