Grind and Grades is where student-athletes, parents, and coaches learn how to balance academics and athletics on the road to the NCAA. Each episode breaks down the real challenges Canadian athletes face—eligibility rules, recruitment tips, and academic planning—so you can focus on what matters most: reaching your goals both on the field and in the classroom.
From No to Next Steps: Coping with Recruiting Rejection
In this episode, hosts explain the best times to email college coaches, what makes a strong introductory recruiting message, and why timing matters less than message quality.They cover how to follow up professionally, how to respond gracefully to rejections, and give a 10-step action plan for building a balanced recruiting strategy, tracking contacts, and staying confident throughout the process.
24 Jul 2026
The NCAA Clock Starts Earlier Than You Think
Canadian student-athletes can lose valuable time before they ever step onto a college campus. In the first episode of Grind and Grades, presented by Collegiate Goals, we break down the NCAA eligibility timeline, core-course planning, the 10/7 rule, and why waiting until Grade 12 can leave families with fewer options.
22 Feb 2026
Missed the Mark? Your NCAA Path Isn’t Over | Academic Eligibility for Canadian Student-Athletes
What happens if you take the wrong course, have a low GPA, or fall behind on NCAA academic eligibility?
In this episode of Grind and Grades, Michael and Shannon break down what “missing the mark” really means and what student-athletes can do at every stage, from Grade 9 through Grade 12.
You will learn:
• How NCAA academic eligibility actually works for Canadian athletes• What to do if you took the wrong course• How timing and GPA affect your options• When a fifth year, NAIA, Division III, or junior college makes sense• Why the NCAA Eligibility Center is the only final authority• How to avoid bad advice that can cost you opportunities
Most importantly, you will hear this message clearly:
Missing the mark does not end your journey. It changes your direction.
If you are feeling unsure, behind, or overwhelmed, this episode will give you clarity and a real plan forward.
Visit www.collegiategoals.com to access free tools and resources for Canadian student-athletes and families.
3 Feb 2026
Eligibility Over Exposure: What Families Get Wrong About NCAA Recruiting
In this episode of Grind and Grades, we explain why NCAA recruiting often breaks down before it starts. Families focus on exposure, but eligibility is what actually determines whether recruiting can move forward. We cover what parents should be doing at each stage, what coaches look at first, and why knowing eligibility early saves time, money, and stress.
29 Dec 2025
Doing Everything Right and Still Losing NCAA Eligibility
Canadian athletes can do everything right and still lose NCAA eligibility. In this episode of Grind and Grades, we explain why this happens, when families usually find out, and what can be done early to avoid eligibility surprises.
16 Nov 2025
Meet our Founder
Kyle, the founder of Collegiate Goals, shares the real story behind the platform and how guiding his son through the NCAA journey inspired him to help Canadian families. From eligibility struggles to the moment his son stepped onto campus, Kyle explains why he created tools that make the path clearer for parents and athletes. A heartfelt episode for anyone chasing the NCAA dream.
16 Oct 2025
Your first Collegiate Goals
Your first goal isn’t on the field, it’s in the classroom. Learn why NCAA eligibility starts in Grade 9, how a 2.3 core GPA can shape your future, and the tools every athlete needs to stay on track. Start early, stay eligible, and own your path to college athletics.
Learn more at www.collegiategoals.com
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