Multi-Sport Athletes - Finn Chambers

Why Multi-Sport Athletes Win — On and Off the Field

In today’s era of year-round club teams and early sport specialization, many parents think their kids need to pick one sport to have a shot at playing in college. But the truth? Multi-sport athletes aren’t just keeping up — they’re leading the way.

Take Finn Chambers, a junior at Ridgeview High School in Redmond, Oregon. Finn is a standout on both the football field and the baseball mound, proving that success doesn’t require choosing between sports. His football coach, Patrick Pileggi, nominated him as a prime example of why being a multi-sport athlete gives students a huge competitive edge in athletics — and in life.

By competing in high school football and baseball, Finn hasn’t just stayed active; he’s built the physical and mental tools college coaches love. He’s stronger, more adaptable, and more competitive — the kind of athlete who gets noticed in the recruiting process.

This feature is part of an ongoing project by Michael Nelson Photography, highlighting outstanding multi-sport athletes across Central Oregon — athletes who excel not only in competition but also in academics and their communities.

Benefit #4: A Recruiting Game-Changer

Parents, here’s what you need to know: College coaches actively recruit multi-sport athletes.

Why? Because these athletes bring more to the table than just stats. They’re coachable, resilient, and mentally tough. They’ve learned to adjust to different coaching styles, handle game-day pressure, and thrive in diverse team environments. In short — they’re prepared for college-level athletics.

And the numbers speak volumes:

• 91% of players drafted in the 2025 NFL Draft were multi-sport athletes in high school.

• Nearly half of MLB first-round draft picks also played more than one sport.

This versatility doesn’t just make kids better athletes — it makes them better recruits.

What College Coaches Are Saying

Some of the biggest names in college sports have been clear about the value of playing multiple sports:

“The best athletes I’ve ever had — they all played multiple sports. These athletes bring more than physical skill; they bring leadership, mental toughness, and the ability to thrive under different styles and systems.”
— Urban Meyer, National Championship College Football Coach

“I love multi-sport guys. You see a competitiveness, you see toughness, and you see a guy who knows how to work.”
— Dabo Swinney, Head Football Coach, Clemson

“I would much rather have a baseball player that is involved in other sports in high school… because it prepares them for college baseball. Playing football in the fall builds physical and mental readiness in ways that travel baseball doesn’t offer.”
— Jim Schlossnagle, Head Baseball Coach, TCU

“The multi-sport guys are better athletes than a guy who has specialized in baseball only.”
— Cliff Godwin, Head Baseball Coach, East Carolina

The Bottom Line for Parents

Specializing too soon can actually limit an athlete’s opportunities. Multi-sport athletes gain a competitive edge — building the toughness, adaptability, and leadership skills that stand out to college recruiters.

As the photographer behind this project, I’m Michael Nelson of Michael Nelson Photography, and my goal is to showcase the incredible multi-sport athletes of Central Oregon — the kids excelling on the field, in the classroom, and in the community.

Do you know a Central Oregon athlete who fits this description? Someone who deserves to be featured for their achievements across multiple sports?
Let’s connect. I’d love to tell their story and continue shining a spotlight on the athletes who make our community proud.