In a world where performance is measured by instant results and online stats, East Stroudsburg University student athlete Jonathan Misura is taking a different approach—one that values patience, long-term growth, and mental strength. Now, he’s encouraging other student athletes to do the same.
After choosing to redshirt his freshman season to focus on development rather than immediate competition, Misura is speaking out about the pressures young athletes face and the importance of giving yourself time to grow.
“It wasn’t an easy decision,” Misura says. “You want to compete. But I had to think long-term. I’ve learned more from not playing than I expected.”
Jonathan, who posted a 1.17 ERA during his junior year at St. Thomas Aquinas High School and led his team to a New Jersey state title in 2024, is not new to competition. But even with success on the mound, he says one of the most valuable lessons came from sitting out and observing.
“Redshirting taught me how to listen, how to think, and how to wait my turn. Those aren’t flashy skills, but they matter.”
The Bigger Picture: Burnout, Injury, and the Cost of Always Competing
According to a 2022 NCAA study, over 30% of student athletes report symptoms of burnout during their first year. Many push through injuries, skip recovery, or neglect academics to meet performance expectations. Misura wants to challenge that mindset.
“There’s pressure to always be on. But that’s not realistic. Sometimes success means knowing when to pause. That’s what redshirting gave me.”
Jonathan says his academic focus—a major in Exercise Science—has helped him understand what happens to the body under stress, and how training without recovery can lead to injury.
“You can’t build anything strong without a base. And rest is part of that base.”
Reframing Success in Sports and Beyond
Misura is now using his platform to raise awareness around what success really looks like—especially for young athletes. It’s not just about playing time or stat sheets. It’s about consistency, discipline, and growth.
“I journal every night. I write down what went well, what didn’t, and what I learned. That’s how I measure progress. Not by likes or stats.”
His message resonates beyond sports. In class, at home, and in life, Misura says the same principles apply.
“Success is just doing your best. If you can say you showed up, worked hard, and learned something, you’re already winning.”
Redefine Success on Your Own Terms
Misura isn’t asking for followers or donations. He’s asking young athletes, coaches, and parents to take a step back and ask: What does success mean to you?
His advice:
-
Build a routine. Success starts with structure.
-
Allow time to grow. You don’t have to rush.
-
Track your progress privately. You don’t need public approval.
-
Use failure as feedback. Don’t avoid it—study it.
-
Prioritize your well-being. Physical and mental.
“Everyone wants to talk about success after it happens,” Misura says. “But the important part is how you get there.”
About Jonathan Misura
Jonathan Misura is a student athlete and exercise science major at East Stroudsburg University. A former state champion pitcher from Milltown, New Jersey, he is currently training for his next season after redshirting his freshman year. Misura is passionate about personal growth, physical recovery, and helping others learn through quiet discipline and daily effort.
Media Contact
Contact Person: Jonathan Misura
Email: Send Email
City: Milltown
State: New Jersey
Country: United States
Website: https://www.jonathanmisura.com/