How to Stay Motivated in Your Golf Practice and Academics at the College of Golf
By Brian Hughes, Keiser University College of Golf Program Director and PGA Master Professional
With the college golf season now upon us (depending on where you live, we can also count high school golf in this discussion), balancing your classes with your golf and golf practice can present a major challenge. With long hours spent on the course, traveling for tournaments, and the mental focus required for both golf and school, staying motivated in your studies during the golf season can be difficult. However, with the right strategies and mindset, it’s absolutely possible to stay on track academically while continuing to perform at a high level on the golf course. Here are some effective tips to help you stay motivated in your studies during the college golf season.
Set Clear Academic Goals
Academics should come first, as that is most likely what you will rely upon after school is completed. Staying motivated starts with having a clear understanding of what you want to achieve academically. Set specific, measurable goals for each class. Whether it’s aiming for a certain GPA, acing your midterm, or simply completing all assignments on time, having clear objectives gives you something to work toward. When you’re tempted to procrastinate, your goals serve as a reminder of what you’re working for.
Create a Structured Schedule
Golf season often includes early morning practices, weekend tournaments, and travel days that can throw off your academic routine. To counter this, create a structured weekly schedule that includes time for all your interests and responsibilities, most importantly, your study time. Treat your schoolwork like a class or a practice session—non-negotiable and part of your daily routine. Block off time between classes, after practice, or during travel to study or complete assignments. Use planning tools like Google Calendar or a physical planner to map out your week.
Make Use of Downtime
You will likely spend a lot of time traveling for competitions, and travel days can feel like you lose academic time. However, these moments can be turned into productive study sessions. Use flights, bus rides, or hotel stays to review notes, read assigned materials, or complete small assignments. If you must miss a class due to travel, in many cases, instructors record classes for future reference, so viewing these would be like not missing class at all. Don’t forget to take your headphones with you to make your travel time more effective.
Stay Organized
With so many responsibilities, staying organized is crucial. Keep a to-do list or digital task manager where you can track assignments, due dates, and exam schedules. Organize your class materials by course and keep everything easily accessible. Cloud storage tools like Google Drive or OneDrive are excellent for making sure you have access to your files anywhere, anytime, even on the road.
Communicate with Professors Early and Often
Your professors understand that student-athletes face unique time constraints, but can only help if they know your situation. At the start of the semester, ensure your instructors are aware of your future golf schedule and any missed class time this may require. This opens the door for future conversations about whether you need to reschedule an exam or request extensions. Being proactive demonstrates maturity and responsibility; most professors are willing to accommodate when you’re honest and prepared.
Use Campus Resources
Many colleges offer academic support specifically for student-athletes, including tutoring, study halls, and academic advisors. Take full advantage of these resources. Even if you’re doing well in your classes, study sessions with a tutor can help reinforce material and keep you on track. Don’t view seeking help as a weakness; it’s a sign that you’re serious about your success.
Connect Academics to Athletics
One way to boost motivation is to find connections between your studies and your sport. If you’re majoring in business, explore sports management. If you’re studying psychology, consider how mental performance relates to golf. Making these connections helps you see how your education can support your athletic career and vice versa, making studying feel more relevant and engaging.
Stay Physically and Mentally Balanced
Burnout is real, especially when you’re juggling school and sports. Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and recovery just as you would for a tournament. A tired brain doesn’t study effectively. Incorporate mental wellness strategies like mindfulness, meditation, or simply taking breaks during study sessions. Staying physically and mentally healthy will help keep your motivation levels high.
Find a Support System
Surround yourself with teammates and friends who share similar academic goals. Studying with others can make learning more interactive and enjoyable. You can hold each other accountable and share resources or study strategies. If you’re struggling, talk to your coaches as well. They want to see you succeed in every aspect of college life and may have useful insights or support to offer.
Conclusion
Staying motivated in your studies during the college golf season takes intention, discipline, and balance. With structured time management, strong communication, and a commitment to both your sport and your education, you can thrive in both areas. Remember, being a student-athlete is a privilege and an opportunity—not just to play the sport you love, but to build skills that will serve you long after your college golf career ends.
