The Spartan Athletic Department, in conjunction with the PHS Counseling Department, is pleased to invite all Paramus High School students and parents to our first ever NCAA Eligibility Workshop. The workshop will be held at the Paramus High School Cafeteria on Monday, March 18, at 7 p.m. Below is a parent testimonial about our dynamic presenter, former NJ Athletic Director of the Year, Mike Gatley.

Dear Parents and Student-Athletes,

I am thrilled to share my thoughts on the exceptional presentation delivered by Mike Gatley during our recent event. It was a great night filled with invaluable insights that garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from both parents and student-athletes alike.

Mike's expertise shone through as he navigated us through the intricate process of becoming a student-athlete at the college level. His comprehensive coverage of topics--including the college admission process, scholarship dynamics, and NCAA eligibility--provided a holistic understanding that left the audience well-informed and inspired.

The feedback we received highlighted the clarity with which Mike discussed complex subjects, making them accessible and actionable for everyone in attendance. Parents and student-athletes appreciated his emphasis on starting the Eligibility Center profile early, recognizing its importance as a foundational step in the journey toward college athletics.

A standout moment was Mike's in-depth discussion on financial aspects, where he demystified the intricacies of scholarships, FAFSA, loans, grants, and other forms of financial aid. Attendees found his advice on letters of recommendation, especially those with a government-level seal, to be particularly valuable in strengthening their college applications.

The positive response extended to Mike's practical guidance on filling out applications for various scholarships, understanding the FAFSA form, and the crucial role academics play in securing athletic scholarships. His insights into choosing a major strategically and identifying departments with significant financial support resonated deeply with the audience.

Moreover, Mike's emphasis on the importance of character and goodness, in addition to athletic prowess, left a lasting impression. Attendees walked away not only informed, but also empowered with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complex landscape of college athletics successfully.

I encourage you all to witness the impact and relevance of Mike Gatley's presentation. It was undeniably a great night, and the overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents and student-athletes reinforces the importance of these discussions in shaping the future of our aspiring athletes.