Episode 172: What It Takes to Commit to West Point as a Student Athlete.

Only a small number of student-athletes ever step onto the path that leads to West Point. The standards are higher, the process is longer, and the commitment extends far beyond a college career.Episode HighlightsIn today’s episode, Lilly Dempkey and Lili Fox share their experiences committing to West Point and the unique challenges of joining the military academy. They explain the recruiting process, including physical testing, academic requirements, and the need for a nomination from a senator or national representative. They also talk about the structured environment, the balance of academics and athletics, team support, and the excitement of beginning their next chapter at the academy.Episode OutlineLilly Dempkey and Lili Fox introduce themselvesRecruiting process for West Point compared to traditional college recruitingTimeline of commitments during junior yearWest Point admission requirements and application checklistCadet Fitness Assessment and physical testing requirementsMedical evaluations and documentation for acceptanceCongressional nomination process and interviewsAcademic expectations and maintaining strong gradesReasons for choosing West Point over other schoolsInfluence of coaches and team culture on the decisionStability of the coaching staff and program environmentAcademic structure and available majors at West PointMilitary service commitment after graduationBalancing athletics, academics, and military responsibilitiesTeam dynamics and culture within West Point volleyballLooking ahead to reception day and starting academy lifeEpisode Chapters00:00 Intro00:50 Lilly & Lili, volleyball & West Point commits02:11 West Point recruiting vs normal college recruiting03:12 Admissions checklist, CFA fitness test & medical exams07:15 Nominations, congressional interviews & essays09:58 Why choose Army/West Point over a traditional college13:42 Discovering academies, coaches, and campus visits21:07 Daily life at West Point, mandatory sports & “beast.”30:24 Fears, academics, majors & five‑year service commitment37:39 Volleyball culture, transfer portal, and why Army fitsAction TakenSubmit West Point acceptance documents, including birth certificate, fingerprints, and medical formsOrder required footwear before reception day (June 29)ConclusionCommitting to West Point requires more than athletic ability. The process demands academic focus, physical preparation, and a clear understanding of the responsibilities that follow graduation. For Lilly Dempkey and Lili Fox, the decision reflects a willingness to pursue a demanding path that blends athletics, leadership, and service.CTASubscribe to Oak Performance Radio and share the episode with athletes, coaches, and parents interested in understanding the path to competing and studying at a military academy.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oakperformancelabInstagram: @oakperformanceConnect with our guests;@lilianafox9 @lillian_dempkeyThank you for listening. The path to high performance is built on discipline, preparation, and the willingness to pursue a purpose bigger than the moment.