Prospects must prepare for defining moments

National Scouting Report scouts worldwide watch young athletes every day.  We see the toil, self-discipline and determination required of them.  We observe the choices they make — good and bad — that change the course of their lives. And because we are typically so close to them, we often experience their highs and lows firsthand. We rejoice in their successes and stand by them in their failures.

We share the hopes and dreams of every prospect we enroll. We invest our reputations when we speak to college coaches on their behalf.  When we recommend a prospect, we do it because we honestly believe in the prospect and his or her potential to help that college program.

But the one thing we hope for most is that when their moments arrive, when they are called upon to step up and perform to the best of their ability in extraordinary circumstances, they will have the wherewithal and character to rise to the occasion and put everything they have on the line.

That does not mean we expect them to win every time. Painful losses, after all, can be just as critical to a young athlete’s personal growth as winning every trophy up for grabs. We hope our prospects will have the courage to meet those singular moments with uncommon confidence, inner drive and self awareness.

Few young athletes ever get the opportunity to reach the pinnacle of their sport, but that is not important. What really matters is they have prepared well for their moment; recognize the significance of the challenge; and allow their best skills — mental and physical — to emerge.

These moments supersede college scholarship offers, signing days or the opportunity to be student-athletes at the highest level. While they can, and should, expose one’s weaknesses, we know they also can define an athlete’s confidence and future.

When that happens, regardless of the outcome, a prospect is finally able to understand the depth of their commitment and appreciate the journey.