The small fish/big pond dilemma.

• Do you want to be a small fish in a big pond or a big fish in a small pond? It is easy to get lost in that big pond. And please do not forget that there will probably be a lot of big fish in that pond. You are no longer the biggest fish in your own little pond. I think this is a great metaphor that applies to college athletics. In any program, there is only room for so many stars. Is there room for you? Of course, as a recruited player, you think there is room for you. Not so fast.
• Live in the present. Live in reality. No one cares about your past, especially your past statistics. Keep them buried in your scrapbook somewhere.
• At your position, is the deck already stacked against you? We talked about this earlier. How many players are being recruited at your position? How many returning starters are back? Essential questions to keep in mind as you go through the process.
• Do you fit in? Athletically? Academically? Socially? Choosing a school that is academically rigorous and you are not up to the challenge can just add more pressure. Think about it.
• It is very flattering to be recruited. Everyone understands that. But where will you be successful? You may have to check your ego at the door. Do you want to go to a big powerhouse school and sit on the bench? Do you want to be anonymous? Or do you want to go somewhere and play and contribute to a program? You may not be on television every week, but you may be happy.
• This is a huge philosophical decision. Make it wisely.