Graduation Does Not Equal Readiness

Why Literacy Matters in Recruiting, NIL, and Life After Sport

Graduation rates are often used as proof that student-athletes are being prepared for the next level. That assumption is flawed.

A diploma confirms participation. It does not confirm readiness.

For student-athletes, literacy is not an academic side issue. It is a performance and protection issue.

Recruiting Is a Literacy Process

College recruiting is driven by reading, writing, and interpretation.

Student-athletes are expected to:

• Read emails from coaches and staff

• Understand eligibility rules and timelines

• Interpret offers, roster language, and communication tone

• Complete questionnaires and academic forms accurately

• Respond professionally in writing

When literacy is weak:

• Messages get misunderstood or ignored

• Opportunities are missed due to poor communication

• Athletes rely on others to speak for them

• Coaches interpret silence or unclear responses as lack of interest

Recruiting rewards clarity. Illiteracy creates friction.

NIL Requires Comprehension, Not Hype

Name, Image, and Likeness opportunities involve:

• Contracts

• Usage rights

• Term lengths

• Deliverables

• Payment structures

• Brand expectations

• Tax implications

These are not optional reading assignments.

A student-athlete who cannot:

• Read and understand a contract

• Ask informed questions

• Identify vague or misleading language

• Write a professional response

• Track obligations and deadlines

Is exposed to risk, even when the deal looks exciting.

Graduation does not protect an athlete. Literacy does.

Life Readiness Outlasts the Sport

Most student-athletes will not earn a living from their sport.

What remains is:

• Communication skills

• Decision-making ability

• Self-advocacy

• Understanding systems and agreements

• Navigating education, employment, and finances

Functional literacy determines whether a young adult:

• Controls their choices

• Or depends on others to interpret the world for them

A system that produces graduates without literacy is not preparing athletes for life. It is delaying the consequences.

The Real Measure of Readiness

Instead of asking:

“How many student-athletes graduated?”

The better questions are:

• Can they read and understand recruiting communication?

• Can they write clearly and professionally?

• Can they evaluate NIL opportunities without pressure?

• Can they advocate for themselves in unfamiliar situations?

• Can they make informed decisions without being rushed?

Those answers matter more than the diploma ceremony.

The Bottom Line for Families and Athletes

Graduation is a milestone.

Literacy is a safeguard.

Recruiting, NIL, and adulthood demand comprehension, not just credentials.

Celebrating graduation rates without addressing literacy gives a false sense of readiness.

Preparation shows up when the uniform comes off.