For many college students, balancing classes and homework is already a challenge. For student-athletes like sophomore Daniya Warner, the demands go far beyond the classroom. As a double major in pre-vet and animal science, a wrestler and an employee, Daniya’s daily routine is packed from morning to night.
Her day typically starts with a workout, followed by classes. Afterward, she heads straight to wrestling practice, then work, and finally back to school work late into the evening. Despite the nonstop schedule, Daniya has developed a system that helps her stay organized and focused.
“I like to make an hourly plan,” she says. “I schedule my classes and workouts first, then use any free time to study or get assignments done.” She also follows the 25-minute focus rule — working for 25 minutes, then taking a 5-minute break — to stay productive. At the beginning of each week, she writes out everything that’s due in a planner, helping her stay ahead of deadlines.
Traveling for competitions adds another layer of difficulty, but Daniya stays proactive by communicating with her professors ahead of time. “I email them to see what I’ll miss and what I need to work on,” she explains.
While the schedule can be overwhelming, Daniya emphasizes the importance of taking care of both physical and mental health. She regularly meets with a physical therapist to stay in top condition and makes time for weekly sessions with an on-campus therapist.
Her experience reflects what coaches expect from student-athletes during the season. Coach Paige Storm emphasizes that success starts with discipline and balance. “During the season, I expect them to get adequate rest — about eight hours of sleep,” she says. “They should be going to all of their classes, attending team lifts, and showing up to practice. I also expect them to complete their CAE hours and turn in their homework and be involved in study tables.”
Beyond physical performance, Coach Storm also prioritizes athletes’ well-being. “I check in with them regularly on campus, at practice, or bring them into my office,” she explains. “It’s about staying in contact, but also knowing when they need space to reset.”
Both Daniya and Coach Storm highlight that success as a student-athlete isn’t just about talent. It’s about time management, communication and resilience.
For students trying to balance multiple commitments, Daniya offers simple but powerful advice: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
Coach Storm echoes that mindset when thinking about life beyond college sports. “If you’re going to do something, go full send,” she says. “Don’t doubt yourself — everyone has been new to something at some point in their life.”
Through discipline, support and determination, student-athletes like Daniya Warner prove that even the busiest schedules can lead to success — both on and off the mat.
