To Play or Not To Play
Is playing in college the right next step for you?
We guide high school athletes (and their parents) through the real-life decision of whether college sports — and which level — is truly right for them. Â
No pressure. Just clarity and support every athlete deserves.
College athletics should be a thoughtful choice
Whether you're being recruited, overlooked, or rebuilding after a hard high school experience. Our To Play or Not to Play sessions help athletes explore what they truly want next—even if the path hasn't been perfect.
Because college sports aren’t all-or-nothing.
This experience offers clarity, perspective, and real-world insight—so your family can move forward with confidence and no regrets.
Click below to get signed up for the first of three sessions with Mike!
Why it matters.
- 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 end a season, and a scholarship.
- Life after sports isn't automatic. Many athletes struggle with identity, career planning and purpose when their playing days end.
Before your student commits, let’s talk through whether the grind is worth the glory—and how to protect their well-being along the way.
Meet Mike O'Brian
Football Career:Â From Player to Coach
- Special Teams – Drake University (IA)
- Assistant Coach, Kickers & Punters – Grand View University (IA)
- Kicking/Punting /Special Teams Coach and Coordinator in multiple high schools in IL and AZ.
- Semi-professional Playing Career (IL/AZ)
- Three-year Starting Kicker – Northwestern College (IA)
Academic and Certification History
- University of Michigan - Sport Social Work Certification: Focused on athlete mental health and integrating social work within athletic settings (in progress)
- Master of Arts in Sports Administration-Educational Leadership – Aurora University (IL)
- Master of Social Work (MSW) – Aurora University (IL)
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – Northwestern College (IA)
To Play or Not to Play Package
- One Family Session
- Two Individual Student Sessions
Family Session (Student & Parents)
We align expectations, unpack the college athletics landscape (NCAA rules, NIL basics, recruiting myths), and explore the family’s hopes, concerns, and long-term goals.
Student Session 1
Private, 1-on-1 conversations with Mike that explore identity, pressure points, motive
Student Session 2
Private, 1-on-1 conversations with Mike that expands on session #1.
Flexibility built-in!
We typically start with the student, but we’re flexible based on what works best for your family.
Schedule a 15-minute session with Mike to get you questions answered and lean more!
Schedule 15 Min with Mike!Stay Informed!
Sign up for our monthly newsletter to stay on top of college-related news, planning, admission tips, and legislation!
