Football can teach lessons that stay with players long after they leave the game. At IMG Academy, coaches focus on helping athletes improve their football skills while also becoming better students and responsible young adults. Winning games is important, but preparing players for college and future opportunities is just as important.
Greg Studrawa, IMG Academy National Team Head Football Coach, has spent most of his life around the sport and has seen how much it can impact a person's future.
"I spent my life in a game I enjoyed because I see the benefits of the game," he said. "The game gave me a future. The game gave me a career."
That experience is one reason he chose coaching. He wants to help young athletes find opportunities through football and learn lessons that can help them throughout life.
Football Is About More Than Winning
Many coaches focus mainly on skills, plays, and game strategies. At IMG Academy, coaches also spend time helping players grow as students and players.
"It's not just about football," Studrawa said. "It's not just about wins and losses. It's about their development as a student, as a man, as a person, as a player. To help them go out and grab their future."
This approach can be seen throughout the program. Coaches work with players during practices, film sessions, and daily interactions to help them build discipline, responsibility, and confidence.
Watch the video below to see how IMG Academy coaches work with players during training and practices.
Learning the Value of Hard Work
Players are expected to give their best effort every time they practice. Coaches encourage them to stay focused, keep improving, and handle challenges with the right attitude.
"We're going to learn to do it through hard work, determination, and never giving up," Coach Studrawa said. "And if I can get that across, then we're going to be all right."
The habits players build through football can help them manage challenges in college and everyday life.
Looking for More Than Football Skills
Athletic ability is important, but successful players need more than talent. They also need the mindset and habits to handle new challenges after high school.
"That's the one thing, and that's why everybody recruits here," Coach Studrawa said. "You can get that kid that's not only a good football player, but the kid that's going to be able to handle that transition."
Moving from high school to college is a major change. Players who learn how to manage their time, stay committed, and take responsibility can adjust more easily.
How IMG Academy Helps Student-Athletes Grow as a Player and a Person
IMG Academy's football program helps athletes improve their skills while also supporting their growth in the classroom and everyday life.
"If your goal is to take your gift, maximize it, be the best you can be, and by the way, grow in every other aspect of your life, then we're for you," Coach Studrawa said. "Period."
IMG Academy wants players to leave the program with stronger football skills, better habits, and more confidence for college and life after football.
Train At IMG Academy
Players who want to experience IMG Academy's training environment can explore IMG Academy's football boarding school or attend a football camp.
