insights

Nathan Gillis Nathan Gillis

Why Strength & Conditioning, Nutrition, and Recovery Are Essential for Track & Field Student-Athletes

Preparing for U.S. college athletics takes more than raw talent β€” it requires strength, structure, and smart recovery. At Olympic Sports Scholarships, we help student-athletes build the foundation they need to thrive both in training and in competition.

For track and field athletes, strength and conditioning go far beyond lifting weights. It’s about developing explosive power, improving coordination, and building the resilience to handle higher training loads. Combined with proper nutrition and recovery, these pillars form the backbone of athletic performance.

From compound lifts like squats and RDLs to plyometric exercises and targeted prehab, we guide athletes through safe, balanced training principles. We also share essential nutrition advice β€” including how to fuel with the right balance of carbs, protein, and fats β€” plus the importance of hydration and sleep for optimal recovery.

This isn’t just about your next season; it’s about preparing your body and mind for the leap into the U.S. collegiate system, where facilities, expectations, and opportunities are all bigger.

Read More
Nathan Gillis Nathan Gillis

How to Choose the Right College as a Student-Athlete: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the right college as a student-athlete is about more than athletic scholarships or big-name programs β€” it’s about finding a school that aligns with your academic goals, athletic aspirations, and lifestyle preferences. From deciding between a bustling city campus or a quiet, close-knit environment, to evaluating team culture, coaching, and top-notch facilities, every choice impacts your college experience.

Read More
Nathan Gillis Nathan Gillis

Reaching Your Peak: How US College Track & Field Can Transform Your Career

For international track and field athletes, competing in the US collegiate system can be a life-changing experience. Beyond earning a degree, it’s a pathway to elite-level sport β€” complete with world-class facilities, expert coaching, and fierce competition. Whether you’re chasing scholarships, international exposure, or long-term athletic success, studying and training in the US could be the key to unlocking your full potential.

Read More
Nathan Gillis Nathan Gillis

How to Calculate Your GPA for US Sports Scholarships

Understanding your GPA is one of the first steps toward securing a U.S. sports scholarship. This guide explains how to calculate your GPA as an international athlete, why it matters for NCAA eligibility, and how Olympic Sports Scholarships’ GPA calculator can help you assess and strengthen your academic profile.

Read More
Nathan Gillis Nathan Gillis

Important Update: US Student Visa Appointments for Athletes

The U.S. State Department has reopened student visa appointments, great news for international athletes aiming to start their collegiate careers. But with the new requirement to share social media accounts, preparation is more important than ever. This guide covers what athletes and parents need to know, plus practical steps to ensure a smooth application process.

Read More
Nathan Gillis Nathan Gillis

Understanding NCAA Recruiting Periods: A Guide for Parents and Coaches

The NCAA recruiting calendar sets the rules for when and how coaches can engage with prospective athletes. Understanding the 2025–26 Evaluation, Contact, Quiet, and Dead periods is essential for parents and coaches guiding student-athletes. This guide explains each period, key dates, and strategic tips to make the most of recruitment opportunities.

Read More
Nathan Gillis Nathan Gillis

Why Versatility Matters: How Multi-Event Athletes Boost Their Scholarship Chances

College athletic scholarships aren’t funded by a single sourceβ€”they’re supported by a complex network of budgets, ticket sales, sponsorships, donations, and NCAA distributions. Understanding how this funding model works helps student-athletes and their families see the bigger picture of college sports and what it takes to secure scholarship opportunities.

Read More
Nathan Gillis Nathan Gillis

Understanding the Funding Model for College Scholarships in Athletics

College athletic scholarships aren’t funded by a single sourceβ€”they’re supported by a complex network of budgets, ticket sales, sponsorships, donations, and NCAA distributions. Understanding how this funding model works helps student-athletes and their families see the bigger picture of college sports and what it takes to secure scholarship opportunities.

Read More
Nathan Gillis Nathan Gillis

How NCAA Division 1 Roster Limits in Track and Field Impact Recruitment (And How to Work Around Them)

NCAA Division 1 roster limits in track and field can make recruitment highly competitive, with only 45 spots available for men and women per team. This blog breaks down how these limits impact scholarships and opportunities, plus strategies to stand outβ€”from building strong coach relationships to showcasing versatility across multiple events.

Read More
Nathan Gillis Nathan Gillis

Key Competitions That Boost Scholarship Chances for International Track & Field Athletes

For international track and field athletes, participating in verified, competitive events can make all the difference when it comes to securing a U.S. scholarship. From national championships to college-run training camps, this post breaks down the key competitions that can boost your recruitment profile and help you stand out to American college coaches.

Read More
Nathan Gillis Nathan Gillis

Networking Tips for Aspiring Athletes: Making Connections in the US

Building strong connections within the athletics community can play a pivotal role in helping international track and field athletes secure U.S. scholarships. From starting early to using social media strategically, here’s how to network effectively and stand out to college coaches.

Read More
Nathan Gillis Nathan Gillis

Understanding Athletic Scholarships: What You Need to Know

Athletic scholarships offer international track and field athletes an exciting pathway to compete and study in the U.S. This guide breaks down the types of scholarships available, what eligibility requirements you need to meet, and how to apply successfully.

Read More
Nathan Gillis Nathan Gillis

Preparing for the Scholarship Interview with Coaches: Tips for Success

Preparing for a scholarship interview with U.S. college coaches is a key step for international track and field athletes. From researching the program to practicing interview questions, this guide walks you through how to make a standout impression and confidently secure your offer.

Read More
Nathan Gillis Nathan Gillis

Navigating the scholarship process for track and field athletes

Starting your U.S. Track & Field scholarship journey but unsure where to begin? This guide breaks down the four key areas you need to focus on β€” academics, athletics, location, and budget β€” to help streamline your college search. Whether you're figuring out what you want to study or where in the U.S. you'd like to live and train, this post helps you navigate the process with clarity and confidence.

Read More

@nathanolympicsports

keep up to date