Why This Conversation Matters

College athletics can be an incredible opportunity - but it also carries real risks that families often don't talk about early enough. 

• 68% of recruited student-athletes quit by their sophomore year.
• The transfer portal can create chaos for underprepared athletes.
• Mental health is now the #1 reason athletes walk away.
• NIL deals bring pressure, as well as perks.
• A single injury can change everything
• Life after sports isn't automatic. Many athletes struggle with identity and direction.

Before your student commits, it’s worth slowing down to ask: Is the grind worth the cost - and how do we protect their well-being along the way?

What Mike Helps You Navigate

Recruiting & The Process

• Recruiting timelines and what coaches are actually looking for
• How to contact coaches and build a recruiting profile
• Managing unofficial visits, official visits, and offers
• What to do if you're being overlooked or starting late

Division Differences

• NCAA Division I, II, III - what really differs and what matters
• NAIA and junior college pathways
• Academic demands, athletic expectation, and team culture at each level

NIL (Name, Image, Likeness)

• What NIL realistically looks like for most college athletes today
• How to evaluate opportunities without added pressure
• Balancing athletics, academics, and income expectations

The Real Questions

• Is college athletics the right path - or are there better alternatives?
• What level of play matches your goals, skill set, and lifestyle?
• How do you rebuild confidence after a difficult  athletic experience?
• What if you're recruited but unsure you want to commit?
• How do you prepare for life after sports - emotionally, mentally, and professionally?

College sports aren't all-or-nothing.

This experience provides perspective, clarity, and a plan - so families can move forward without regret.

How It Works:

Session 1: Student Only

An honest, athlete-to-athlete conversation focused on the student’s goals, recruiting status, concerns, and what they truly want from their college athletic experience. We explore fit, division level, priorities, and possible paths forward.

Session 2: Student + Parent/Guardian

A collaborative strategy session to align expectations, discuss recruiting realities, review division options, NIL considerations, financial and time commitments, and build a realistic family game plan. We answer remaining questions and create a clear next-step plan — whether that means committing, pursuing recruiting opportunities, exploring walk-on options, adjusting the target level, or choosing a different path.

Meet Mike O'Brien, LMSW

Athlete. Coach. Mental Health Expert.

Playing & Coaching Experience

• Special Teams – Drake University

• Assistant Coach, Kickers & Punters – Grand View University

• Special Teams Coach & Coordinator – multiple high schools (IL & AZ)

• Semi-professional playing career (IL & AZ)

• Three-year starting kicker – Northwestern College

Education & Credentials

• Sport Social Work Certification – University of Michigan 

• M.A. Sports Administration & Educational Leadership – Aurora University

• Master of Social Work (MSW) – Aurora University

• B.A. Psychology – Northwestern College

Get clarity, a game plan, and next steps you can trust. Start the To Play or Not To Play Package today!