Preseason can seem very daunting for incoming freshman. Everyone is bigger, stronger, and faster than in high school. You’re no longer the big man on the totem pole. You’re back into the dumps of seniority. You probably are living alone for the first time in your life. These first two weeks can be the toughest time of your life mentally and physically. Here are some tips to help you survive preseason.

1. Be in shape

I can not stress enough how important this is. Your coach will give you a workout packet to do during the months up to preseason. It is extremely important for you to do that packet each and every day. Being in shape going into preseason will help ease the workload on your body as well as impress your coach.

2. Give it your all every day

When you get to day three or four of two-a-days your body will be struggling but it is in your best interest to continue giving it your all every day. Your coach will notice the effort you put into practices; it can only help your ranking in coach’s head.

3. Play with confidence

There is a high chance that you are not the best player on your team anymore. Just because you are not the best doesn’t mean you can’t play well and help your team. Remember your coach recruited you for a reason. If you play with confidence you will play a lot better than if you played timid.

4. Bond with your new teammates

You will be spending 20+ hours a week with your teammates for the season, plus time in the off season. It is crucial for you to develop friendships with your teammates so that you are happy throughout the season. Not only will they be your teammates, they will be some of the strongest friends you have on campus throughout your four years.

5. Develop friendships with other sports athletes

You are going to be on campus before all students. The only kids on campus will be fall athletes. It will help your mood if you walk around your dorm and get to meet some of the other athletes. Plus you might make friends that will last your four years.

6. Use your free time to sleep

Do not be afraid to take naps at any part of the day. Naps are essential for you to continue to be at your best mentally at practice. Naps will also give your body time that is necessary to help your body recover.

7. Take ice baths

Ice baths might seem weird or not useful, but they are the best way for your body to recover and feel better. Try to take one every two days. Taking care of your body during preseason is extremely important and ice baths will help your body feel strong throughout preseason.

If you use these seven tips, preseason will be as painless as possible and will set you up in a great position for the start of the season and the school year.