Class of 2028 Summer Checklist
Summer before sophomore year is a golden opportunity. It’s a chance to reset, refocus, and realign both in the classroom and in your sport. For student athletes, it’s a time to grow without the day-to-day pressures of school. Whether you’re aiming to play in college, exploring NIL opportunities in the future, or simply trying to be your best self, here’s a clear checklist to help you stay on track this summer.
1. Review and Refine Your Academic Plan
This is a great time to reflect on how freshman year went. Did your classes challenge you? Did your grades reflect your effort and goals?
Checklist:
Review your final grades and progress in each subject
Finalize your sophomore class schedule
Consider leveling up with Honors or AP courses (especially in core subjects)
If needed, sign up for tutoring or an intro course to get ahead
Actionable advice: admissions professionals (and coaches) love to see academic growth and challenge. A strong sophomore transcript helps build momentum.
2. Set Academic Goals That Stick
Sophomore year grades matter. This is the time to create structure and set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) for your school year.
Checklist:
Set a goal for each core subject
Create a simple system to track weekly grades
Identify potential academic challenges and have a support plan
Schedule weekly check-ins with yourself or a mentor
Goal idea: “Raise my math grade from B- to B+ by attending weekly tutoring and finishing all assignments on time.”
3. Strengthen Your Athletic Foundation
Summer is when real gains happen, but it’s also about building discipline, rest habits, and mental toughness.
Checklist:
Follow a training plan designed for your sport and position
Watch film or learn from pro athletes in your game
Set physical and mental performance goals
Recover properly—sleep, nutrition, and hydration matter
Consider a summer showcase, camp, or skills clinic
Actionable advice: this is about more than performance—it’s about being a coachable, consistent athlete.
4. Be Intentional with Extracurriculars
Student athletes often juggle a lot. The key is depth, not just busyness. Focus on what you love and where you can grow.
Checklist:
Choose 2–3 activities that align with your interests or values
Take on responsibility or a leadership role (big or small)
Find one way to give back—mentor younger athletes, volunteer at a camp, or help your team
Consider a summer program tied to a passion (STEM, art, service, etc.)
Actionable advice: when it’s time to build your recruiting or college profile, this kind of engagement sets you apart.
5. Explore College Fit
You don’t need a list yet, but it’s smart to start learning about different types of colleges and what they offer.
Checklist:
Take a few virtual campus tours (big, small, public, private)
Follow some college athletic programs on social media
Use a spreadsheet to keep notes about schools that catch your attention
Talk to your counselor or coach about academic and athletic goals
Future-ready mindset: the more you know now, the more intentional you’ll be when recruiting and applications start.
6. Begin Light Standardized Test Prep
You won’t take the ACT or SAT until junior year, but preparing now builds confidence. Through our partnership with Revolution Prep, our student athletes have access to top tier test prep professionals who will create an individualized plan tailored to your needs and availability.
Checklist:
Register for the PSAT if your school offers it
Try a free online ACT and/or SAT practice test (Rev Prep is a great place to start)
Get comfortable with test timing and question formats
Track your results and progress over time
Note: test scores are still helpful for many athletes aiming for competitive academic or DIII programs—even in a test-optional world.
Final Thoughts
Sophomore year isn’t just a “middle year” for student athletes, it’s a launchpad. Use this summer to reset, explore, and elevate. You're not expected to have everything figured out, but taking small, intentional steps now will make a big difference later.
Whether you’re dreaming of a roster spot, building toward NIL opportunities, or just striving to reach your potential—the view is always worth the climb.