[ASBSECU E93]

As a former D1 athlete, and former coach of D1 athletes - I can speak to both sides. Her ability to earn a scholarship (you’ll both want it to be FULL) is an amazing achievement, should it happen. Playing at a this level is highly competitive and she’ll get to make lasting friendships, travel, and enjoy the college experience. Adjusting to a more rigid structure will be the biggest challenge - as others have said the university now ‘owns’ you time. Competition over playing time, the structure of a collegiate program, and personality conflicts typically end a playing career at the program. I’ve often told other friends with athlete children to consider a situation where they can step in a play immediately vs playing at a power 5 program - if any of the above is a concern. From a university perspective - the coach’s livelihood is dependent on the ability to recruit quality players who perform. Sometimes - it’s not the kids fault, but rather the kid simply isn’t living up to the coaches expectations, and they’ll make it hard enough so the kid(s) quit. For context - I played on the sand tour for ~ 3 years and earned a decent living. You might want to consider a program that has both indoor and outdoor for your daughter.