Varsity athletes get a “Step by Step” presentation on the transition to college athletics

BELMONT, Ohio (WTRF) – There are a substantial number of high school athletes out there who have a desire to continue their athletic careers in college.

However, those positions are rare and can be difficult to secure.

“Moving Up Step by Step” at Union Local brought in CRC Basketball’s Doc Merrick, Wheeling University’s head men’s basketball coach Chris Richardson and Chase Harler who started his basketball career at Wheeling Central, moved to play under Bob Huggins at WVU, and is now a retired European pro.

Their experience in academics, training, mental health, and navigating the recruiting process was presented to student athletes and their families who are thinking about taking that next step.

”We hope that people will leave here understanding how privileged you have to be and how skilled in order to play in college. But if you have that opportunity, it’s going to be transformational in your life. It’s going to open doors much easier than if you don’t have those opportunities.”

Doc Merrick – Director, CRC Basketball

Doc says that this process starts as early as middle school, as NCAA has very specific requirements that you need to take ‘step by step.’

He has been doing this presentation all over for more than 20 years, and the success he has seen in young athletes has been rewarding and shows that hard work pays off.

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