Guide to Earning a College Athletic Scholarship

Table Of Contents

Overview

What is an Athletic Scholarship?

Different Types of Athletic Scholarships

Availability and structure of athletic scholarships across NCAA divisions 4

Understanding the Basics

How do Athletic Scholarships Work?

Differences Between NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA Scholarships

Are Athletic Scholarships Hard to Get?

Academic and Athletic Scholarship Eligibility Requirements

Academic Eligibility Requirements

Core Courses

GPA Requirements

Standardized Test Scores

Athletic Eligibility Requirements

Performance and Recruitment

Amateurism

Eligibility Centers

Additional Eligibility Considerations

What Sports are Easiest to Earn an Athletic Scholarship?

Scholarships in High-Revenue Sports (e.g., Football and Basketball)

Equivalency Sports (e.g., Baseball, Soccer, Track & Field)

Lower-Revenue Sports (e.g., Tennis, Swimming, Golf)

Niche and Emerging Sports (e.g., Lacrosse, Rowing)

Can a college take away an athletic scholarship?

How can I increase my chances of getting a sports scholarship?

Improve Your Athletic Skills

Excel Academically

Research Colleges and Programs

Be Proactive with College Coaches

Leverage Social Media

Consider Using Athletic Recruiting Services

Know the Scholarship Process

Stay Focused and Persistent

How long do sports scholarships last?

The Recruitment Process and Understanding Recruitment Timelines

Freshman and Sophomore Years: The Importance of Early Planning

Junior Year: The Critical Phase

Senior Year: Final Push

The Role of High School Coaches

Communicating with College Coaches

Sport-Specific Considerations

Football

Basketball

Baseball

Soccer

Track and Field

Swimming

Other Sports

Recruiting for Wrestling, Volleyball, Tennis, etc.

Unique Recruitment Strategies

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Creating a Compelling Athletic Resume

Building an Online Presence

Interviewing with Coaches

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Post-Commitment Steps

Success Stories and Testimonials

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Resources and Further Reading

Putting it All Together

Overview

What is an Athletic Scholarship?

An athletic scholarship is a financial award colleges or universities provide student-athletes based on their athletic abilities and achievements. These scholarships may cover a portion, or the entirety, of a student's tuition, fees, room, and board in exchange for the student-athlete’s participation in the sport the student-athlete was recruited for. Athletic scholarships are usually renewable each year, provided the student maintains their athletic performance, academic standards, and adherence to the team’s rules and requirements.

Different Types of Athletic Scholarships

Athletic scholarships are typically divided into two main categories: full athletic scholarships and partial athletic scholarships.  

Full athletic scholarships cover the entire cost of attending college, including tuition, fees, room, board, and sometimes even books, meal plans, and other expenses. These scholarships provide a "full ride" and are typically reserved for top-tier athletes in high-revenue sports like football and basketball, especially at the NCAA Division I level.

Partial athletic scholarships, on the other hand, cover only a portion of these costs. The amount awarded varies based on the athlete’s skills, the sport, and the school's budget. In many cases, coaches strategically combine partial athletic scholarships with academic scholarships or other forms of financial aid to create a "full-ride" package for the student-athlete.

This combination allows athletes to fully fund their education, though technically it isn't classified as a full athletic scholarship. These blended packages are common in sports with more limited scholarship availability, like baseball, soccer, or track and field, where NCAA rules often limit the number of full scholarships a team can offer.

This approach enables coaches to distribute their available scholarships more widely among their roster, maximizing the number of athletes they can support financially.

Availability and structure of athletic scholarships across NCAA divisions

• Division I (D1): NCAA Division I schools typically offer the most athletic scholarships and the highest level of competition. In many D1 sports, especially in football and basketball, schools are allowed to offer full scholarships to their top athletes. These scholarships often cover all expenses, such as tuition, room and board, and the school’s meal plan.
  However, in other sports, such as track and field or baseball, partial scholarships are typically distributed. Coaches in these sports must divide a limited number of scholarships among a larger group of athletes, resulting in many athletes receiving partial scholarships.

• Division II (D2): NCAA Division II schools also offer athletic scholarships, but the number and amount are generally less than in Division I. D2 schools frequently offer partial scholarships rather than full ones, requiring athletes to combine athletic aid with academic scholarships, need-based aid, or other financial resources to cover their total costs. The competition is still strong in D2, but the emphasis is more on balancing athletics with academics.

• Division III (D3): NCAA Division III schools do not offer athletic scholarships at all. Instead, these schools focus on providing financial aid through academic scholarships, need-based grants, and other types of aid. The emphasis in D3 is on the overall student experience, with athletics being an important but non-commercialized part of college life. D3 schools encourage student-athletes to prioritize their academic success while still competing at a high level in sports.

Understanding the Basics

How do Athletic Scholarships Work?

To receive an athletic scholarship, a student-athlete must typically undergo a recruiting process, where college coaches evaluate their athletic and academic qualifications. This process often involves showcasing talents through high school competitions, club sports, or recruiting events, and maintaining communication with potential coaches.

The NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA govern most athletic scholarships, and each has its own rules and regulations regarding scholarship distribution and eligibility requirements.

Differences Between NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA Scholarships

The NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association), NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics), and NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association) are the primary organizations that govern athletic scholarships in the United States. Each of these organizations oversees a different group of institutions and sets specific rules and regulations regarding how scholarships can be distributed and the eligibility requirements for student-athletes.

• NCAA: The NCAA is the largest and most well-known governing body. It has over 1,100 member schools and it regulates athletic scholarships across its three divisions (Division I, II, and III). In Division I, schools are allowed to offer full scholarships in many sports, particularly in high-profile sports like football and basketball.
  Division II schools can also offer scholarships, but these are often partial scholarships, with athletes needing to combine them with academic or need-based aid. Division III schools do not offer athletic scholarships, focusing instead on academic and other forms of financial aid. The NCAA has strict eligibility requirements, including academic standards and amateurism rules, to ensure that student-athletes maintain their status as students first.

• NAIA: The NAIA is a smaller organization with just over 250 member schools, primarily at the undergraduate level, and offers a more flexible approach to athletic scholarships. NAIA schools can offer both full and partial scholarships, and they tend to have fewer restrictions on how these scholarships are allocated compared to the NCAA.
  The NAIA also has eligibility requirements, but these are generally seen as more lenient, providing student-athletes with a greater ability to balance athletics with academics and other aspects of college life.

• NJCAA: The NJCAA governs athletics at two-year community and junior colleges, with just over 500 member schools across 24 states. Similar to the NCAA, the NJCAA has different divisions (Division I, II, and III), each with its own scholarship rules. Division I schools in the NJCAA can offer full scholarships, while Division II schools typically offer partial scholarships.

Division III schools do not provide athletic scholarships, focusing instead on academic aid. The NJCAA's eligibility requirements are designed to ensure that student-athletes are making satisfactory academic progress and are prepared to transfer to four-year institutions if desired.

Are Athletic Scholarships Hard to Get?

The likelihood of earning an athletic scholarship is slim, with only about 2%, or 180,000 out of 8 million high school athletes, receiving some form of athletic aid to compete at the collegiate level.

However, securing scholarships can vary significantly depending on the sport. For instance, scholarships in football and basketball are often more competitive due to the high profile and extensive media coverage these sports receive, making the pool of athletes larger and the recruitment more intense. On the other hand, sports like track and field or swimming may offer more opportunities for scholarships, as the recruitment pool is smaller and coaches may be more willing to extend offers to promising athletes who excel in specific events.

Beyond raw athletic performance, coaches also consider a variety of other factors when recruiting high school athletes. These include academic achievements, leadership qualities, work ethic, and how well an athlete fits into the team’s culture and needs. Coaches look for players who demonstrate not only skill but also the potential for growth and a commitment to balancing academics and athletics, which can significantly influence their scholarship decisions.

Academic and Athletic Scholarship Eligibility Requirements

To receive a college athletic scholarship, student-athletes must meet both athletic and academic eligibility requirements, which vary depending on the governing body (NCAA, NAIA, NJCAA) and the division within that governing body. These requirements are designed to ensure that student-athletes are prepared for the rigors of college-level competition and academics, while also maintaining the integrity of collegiate sports.

Academic Eligibility Requirements

Core Courses

• NCAA Division I & II: Student-athletes must complete 16 core courses in high school, which typically include subjects like English, math, natural/physical science, social science, and additional coursework in these areas.

• NAIA: The NAIA requires incoming freshmen to meet two out of three criteria: a minimum 2.0 GPA, a ranking in the top 50% of their high school graduating class, or a minimum ACT or SAT score (18 on the ACT or 860 on the SAT).

• NJCAA: The NJCAA's academic requirements vary by division but generally require high school graduation or a GED, with additional requirements for certain levels of competition.

GPA Requirements

• NCAA Division I: A minimum GPA in core courses is required, calculated on a sliding scale with standardized test scores (SAT or ACT). Higher test scores can offset a lower GPA and vice versa.

• NCAA Division II: A minimum GPA of 2.2 in core courses is required, with a similar sliding scale for test scores.

• NAIA & NJCAA: GPA requirements vary, but a minimum high school GPA is typically required for eligibility.

Standardized Test Scores

• NCAA: Both Division I and II use a sliding scale to determine the required SAT or ACT score based on GPA.

• NAIA: Requires a minimum score of 18 on the ACT or 860 on the SAT for eligibility.

• NJCAA: Requirements vary by division, but standardized test scores may be required for certain scholarships or programs.

Athletic Eligibility Requirements

Performance and Recruitment

Student-athletes must demonstrate exceptional athletic ability, typically through high school competitions, club teams, or other competitive leagues. College coaches evaluate athletes based on their performance, potential, and fit within the team. The recruitment process often involves showcases, highlight reels, and direct communication with coaches to express interest and secure scholarship offers.

Amateurism

• Traditional Amateurism: Historically, to be eligible for a college athletic scholarship, student-athletes must maintain amateur status. This means they cannot have signed a professional contract, received payment for playing their sport, or been represented by an agent.

• NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) Changes: Recent changes in state laws and NCAA policies have redefined amateurism, particularly with the introduction of NIL rights. In many states, student-athletes can now earn money from endorsements, sponsorships, social media, and other NIL activities without losing their eligibility for college athletics. This means that while they still need to maintain amateur status in the traditional sense (not signing professional contracts or being paid directly for playing their sport), they can now monetize their personal brand.

Eligibility Centers

• NCAA Eligibility Center: For NCAA Division I and II athletes, the NCAA Eligibility Center certifies academic and amateurism status. Student-athletes must register with the center and submit their transcripts and test scores for review.

• NAIA Eligibility Center: Similarly, the NAIA requires athletes to register with its eligibility center to verify their academic qualifications and amateur status.

Additional Eligibility Considerations

• Renewal and Maintenance: Athletic scholarships are typically awarded on an annual basis and can be renewed each year if the student-athlete maintains the required academic and athletic performance standards.

• Division III: In NCAA Division III, athletic scholarships are not offered. Instead, financial aid is based on academic merit, need, or other non-athletic criteria, though D3 athletes must still meet the academic eligibility standards of their institutions.

What Sports are Easiest to Earn an Athletic Scholarship?

Yes, certain sports offer more opportunities for athletic scholarships than others, largely due to factors such as the number of available scholarships, the size of the sport’s talent pool, and the level of competition. Here’s a breakdown of how scholarship opportunities can vary by sport:

Scholarships in High-Revenue Sports (e.g., Football and Basketball)

A high-revenue sport is one that generates substantial income for colleges and universities, primarily through media rights, sponsorships, ticket sales, and merchandise. Examples include football and men's basketball. High-revenue sports often have large fan bases, significant media exposure, and extensive commercial partnerships, which contribute to their financial prominence.

• Football: Football offers some of the highest numbers of athletic scholarships, particularly at the NCAA Division I level. Division I FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) programs can offer up to 85 full scholarships, while Division I FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) programs can offer up to 63 scholarships, which can be divided among athletes. Football is one of the sports where full scholarships are more common, but the competition is intense due to the large number of athletes vying for these spots.

• Basketball: Basketball also provides significant scholarship opportunities, especially in Division I, where men’s and women’s teams can offer up to 13 and 15 full scholarships, respectively. However, like football, the competition is fierce, with thousands of high school athletes competing for a limited number of spots.

Equivalency Sports (e.g., Baseball, Soccer, Track & Field)

An equivalency sport is one where scholarships are not fully funded but rather divided into partial scholarships that can be distributed among multiple athletes. This model allows coaches to offer more scholarships across a broader group of athletes but typically at less than full funding per athlete. Examples of equivalency sports include track and field, swimming, and soccer. The allocation of scholarships in these sports is often based on performance, potential, and the team’s needs.

• Baseball: NCAA Division I baseball teams have 11.7 scholarships to distribute among their players, making full scholarships rare. Coaches often divide these scholarships into partial awards, which means more athletes receive some scholarship money, but it may not cover all college expenses. The competition for these limited scholarships is high, particularly since baseball is popular at both the high school and college levels.

• Soccer: Soccer operates similarly to baseball in terms of scholarship distribution. NCAA Division I men’s teams can offer up to 9.9 scholarships, while women’s teams can offer up to 14. These scholarships are often divided among multiple players, increasing the number of athletes who receive aid but reducing the likelihood of a full scholarship.

• Track & Field/Cross Country: These sports offer a relatively higher number of scholarships compared to some others, with NCAA Division I men’s programs offering 12.6 scholarships and women’s programs offering 18. However, these are also divided among a large number of athletes, making partial scholarships more common.

• Lacrosse: Lacrosse is a rapidly growing sport, particularly in certain regions of the U.S. NCAA Division I men’s programs have 12.6 scholarships, and women’s programs have 12. These are typically divided among the roster, but the growth of the sport is creating more opportunities than in the past.

• Rowing: Women’s rowing is an NCAA Division I sport with relatively high scholarship limits (20 full scholarships). It is often used to help schools comply with Title IX requirements, so there can be more opportunities for scholarships in this sport, especially for women.

Lower-Revenue Sports (e.g., Tennis, Swimming, Golf)

Low-revenue sports do not generate significant income compared to high-revenue sports and often rely more on institutional support and funding from other sources. These sports may have smaller fan bases, less media exposure, and limited commercial revenue. Examples include sports like wrestling, cross country, or fencing. These sports generally have fewer financial resources and may face more challenges in recruiting and scholarship funding compared to high-revenue sports.

• Tennis: Tennis scholarships are available, but they are usually partial and highly competitive, especially at Division I schools. Men’s programs are limited to 4.5 scholarships, and women’s programs to 8. The small number of scholarships means that most players receive only partial awards, which they often have to supplement with academic scholarships or other financial aid.

• Swimming & Diving: Swimming and diving also offer scholarship opportunities, though these are often partial and spread out across a large roster of athletes. NCAA Division I men’s teams have 9.9 scholarships, and women’s teams have 14. The competition is strong, but the sport’s lower profile compared to football and basketball can make it slightly less competitive.

• Golf: Golf scholarships are limited, with NCAA Division I men’s programs offering 4.5 scholarships and women’s programs offering 6. As with other equivalency sports, these scholarships are often divided among team members, making full scholarships rare.

Can a college take away an athletic scholarship?

Yes, a college can take away an athletic scholarship under certain circumstances. There are several reasons why a college might revoke or not renew an athletic scholarship:

• Academic Performance: If a student-athlete fails to maintain the required academic standards set by the NCAA, the athletic department, or the university itself, their scholarship may be revoked. This could include falling below a minimum GPA, not completing enough credit hours, or failing to meet progress-toward-degree requirements.

• Violation of Team Rules or University Policies: If a student-athlete violates team rules, university policies, or the code of conduct, their scholarship can be revoked. This could include behaviors such as substance abuse, academic dishonesty, legal issues, or other forms of misconduct.

• Injury or Inability to Compete: While many schools have policies that protect athletes who are injured while participating in their sport, some schools may choose not to renew a scholarship if the athlete can no longer compete at the expected level due to injury. However, this is often handled on a case-by-case basis, and some schools may choose to honor the scholarship even if the athlete is injured.

• Coaching Changes: Sometimes, a change in the coaching staff can lead to a reevaluation of scholarship athletes. A new coach might decide to change the composition of the team, which could result in a scholarship not being renewed for an athlete who no longer fits the new coach’s plans.

• Performance Issues: If a student-athlete does not perform at the level expected by the coach or team, particularly if they are not contributing to the team’s success, their scholarship may not be renewed. However, this is less common, as most coaches will work with athletes to help them improve before considering such actions.

• Voluntary Withdrawal from the Team: If a student-athlete decides to leave the team voluntarily, the scholarship can be immediately revoked, as it is typically tied directly to participation in the sport.

How can I increase my chances of getting a sports scholarship?

Improve Your Athletic Skills

• Train Consistently: Work hard to improve your skills, strength, and conditioning. Practice regularly and seek feedback from coaches to refine your techniques and enhance your overall performance.

• Compete at High Levels: Participate in competitive high school, club, or travel teams that give you exposure to college recruiters. Competing against strong opponents will help you stand out.

• Attend Camps and Showcases: Participate in college camps, tournaments, and showcases where college coaches can evaluate your talent firsthand. These events are great opportunities to get noticed.

Excel Academically

• Maintain Good Grades: Keep your GPA high, as many athletic scholarships have academic requirements. College coaches prefer athletes who can manage their academic responsibilities.

• Take Challenging Courses: Enroll in advanced or honors classes to demonstrate your ability to handle college-level academics.

• Prepare for SAT/ACT: Achieve strong scores on standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, which are important for academic eligibility and can also increase your chances of earning academic scholarships alongside athletic scholarships.

• Create a Professional Highlight Reel: The goal is to collect enough game footage of you between your freshman and sophomore years to create a 3–5-minute video showcasing your skills. Make sure it’s well-edited and highlights your best moments. The foundation of a good highlight reel is quality footage.

• How to Get the Best Clips:

• Record Every Game: Start recording your games early in the season. Ask your coach, teammates, or parents to help if necessary. If your team already records games, request access to the footage.

• Tip: Make sure the footage is clear and focuses on you throughout the play. If possible, ask the camera person to zoom in on your movements when necessary.

• Use Multiple Angles (if possible): If you have access to multiple angles, use clips that show your play from different perspectives to give coaches a better view of your athleticism.

• Focus on Full-Speed, In-Game Footage: Coaches are interested in how you perform in real games, so avoid including slow-motion clips or over-produced graphics. Stick to full-speed gameplay that shows you against legitimate competition.

• Select Your Best Plays

• Focus on Your Strengths: Whether you're a soccer forward with a killer shot, a basketball player with excellent court vision, or a football linebacker with great tackling ability, prioritize clips that show off your strongest skills.

• Include Variety: Don’t just show one aspect of your game. If you’re a basketball player, include shooting, passing, defense, and basketball IQ. If you're a baseball player, show both your fielding and batting.

• Keep It Short and Sweet: A good highlight reel is typically 3-5 minutes long. College coaches have limited time and often watch dozens of reels in a day, so you want to make an immediate impact.

• Tip: Lead with your best plays. Put your most impressive clips at the beginning of the reel to hook the viewer.

• Editing the Video:

• Identify Yourself in Each Clip: Be sure to always highlight yourself at the beginning of each play. Use an arrow, highlight, or spotlight effect to clearly identify where you are on the court or field to ensure the coach knows who to watch.

•  Free Editing Software: Here are some free tools available to edit your highlight reel professionally.

• DaVinci Resolve

• Key Features: Advanced editing tools, color correction, and audio post-production.

• Why It's Great: Offers professional-level features for free, making it perfect for athletes who want to create high-quality highlight reels.

• HitFilm Express

• Key Features: Video editing, visual effects, and a variety of free templates.

• Why It's Great: Ideal for athletes who want to add a bit of flair with special effects and smooth transitions in their highlight videos.

• OpenShot

• Key Features: Easy-to-use interface, supports 3D animations, drag-and-drop functionality.

• Why It's Great: A simple yet powerful tool for creating clean, straightforward highlight reels.

• Shotcut

• Key Features: Wide format support, multi-track timeline, and built-in filters.

• Why It's Great: Great for athletes who need a simple, easy-to-learn editor that still provides a professional look.

• Lightworks Free

• Key Features: Multicam editing, trimming, and built-in effects.

• Why It's Great: Offers a pro editing experience, and it's been used in Hollywood films. It’s great for athletes looking to stand out with polished videos.

• iMovie (for macOS/iOS users)

• Key Features: Easy drag-and-drop video editing, audio enhancements, and filters.

• Why It's Great: Perfect for quick, polished highlight reels if the athlete uses Apple products.

• Showcase Your Best Moments: Put together a well-edited highlight video that clearly displays your skills, game performance, and athleticism. Make it easy for college coaches to evaluate your potential.

• Make It Easily Accessible: Share your video online via YouTube or social media and send it directly to college coaches in your communications.

Research Colleges and Programs

• Target the Right Schools: Look for schools that match your athletic abilities and academic interests. Research which colleges offer scholarships for your sport, and tailor your applications to those programs.

• Diversify Your Options: Apply to a mix of Division I, Division II, Division III, NAIA, and NJCAA schools to increase your chances of landing an offer.

Be Proactive with College Coaches

• Initiate Contact: Don’t wait for coaches to find you—send emails with your resume, highlight reel, and academic achievements to express interest in their program. Introduce yourself and explain why you would be a good fit for their team.

• Keep Coaches Updated: Maintain communication with coaches, keeping them informed about your progress, upcoming games, and accomplishments. Building a relationship can help keep you on their radar.

• Attend Recruiting Events and Visit Colleges

• Go on Official or Unofficial Visits: If a coach invites you for a campus visit, attend and ask thoughtful questions about the program, team dynamics, and scholarship opportunities.

• Impress During Recruiting Events: Whether in showcases or visits, demonstrate your enthusiasm, work ethic, and commitment to both the sport and academics.

Leverage Social Media

• Build a Positive Online Presence: Use social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram to share your highlight reels, training updates, and athletic accomplishments. Tag college coaches to increase visibility.

• Maintain a Clean Profile: Make sure your social media profiles are professional, as coaches often look at these to gauge a recruit's character.

Consider Using Athletic Recruiting Services

• Recruiting Agencies: If you're having trouble connecting with coaches, consider using a recruiting service that helps athletes get noticed by colleges. They can assist with promoting you to the right schools and managing the recruiting process.

Know the Scholarship Process

• Understand Scholarship Types: Learn about the differences between full and partial scholarships. In many sports, especially at Division II and NAIA levels, scholarships are often divided among several players.

• Follow Up on Offers: When you receive an offer, review the terms carefully. Be aware of any performance, academic, or behavior requirements needed to maintain the scholarship year-to-year.

Stay Focused and Persistent

• Stay Dedicated: Keep improving both academically and athletically, even if the recruiting process takes time. The effort you put in will increase your chances of standing out.

How long do sports scholarships last?

College athletic scholarships typically last either for a single academic year or for all four years of undergraduate study, depending on the program and the specific scholarship agreement. Ultimately, the continuation of an athletic scholarship is at the discretion of the coach or the athletic program, which can choose not to renew a scholarship if the athlete no longer meets the required expectations or if the team needs change.

The Recruitment Process and Understanding Recruitment Timelines

Contacting Coaches: Start by reaching out to coaches early in high school through emails or online recruitment platforms. Include your athletic achievements, academic records, and highlight reels. This opens the lines of communication and helps you get on their radar.

Understanding Recruitment Timelines: Different sports and divisions have varying timelines for recruitment. It's important to know when coaches begin scouting, how recruiting events fit into the calendar, and when verbal commitments and offers are typically made. NCAA guidelines and timelines should be closely followed.

Verbal Commitments and Official Offers: A verbal commitment is a non-binding agreement between a student-athlete and a coach that happens before a formal offer is made. Official offers, which come with scholarship details, are typically made after the junior year or during senior year.

Freshman and Sophomore Years: The Importance of Early Planning

• Setting Academic Goals: Establish strong academic habits and ensure you're on track to meet the NCAA core course requirements, as academics are just as important as athletic performance in the recruitment process.

• Participating in Varsity Sports: Start competing at the varsity level early, showing your potential to play at the collegiate level.

• Building Relationships with Coaches: Begin cultivating relationships with your high school and club coaches, as they can offer guidance and help you connect with college coaches.

Junior Year: The Critical Phase

• Enhancing Athletic Performance: Focus on reaching peak athletic performance through training and competition, as this is the time when college coaches are actively scouting.

• Attending Camps and Showcases: Attend recruitment camps and showcases to get in front of coaches and display your skills in person.

• Creating Highlight Reels: Compile a professional highlight reel that showcases your top performances to share with coaches.

• Starting the Recruitment Process: Begin reaching out to college coaches and programs that interest you, including submitting your highlight reel, academic records, and athletic achievements.

Senior Year: Final Push

• Finalizing the College List: Narrow down your college list based on your athletic and academic fit, scholarship offers, and personal preferences.

• Official Visits: Take official visits to your top-choice schools, meeting coaches and teammates while learning more about the athletic programs and campus life.

• Early Decision vs. Regular Decision: Decide whether to apply to your preferred school via Early Decision, which can increase your chances of acceptance and committing to a program early, or Regular Decision, which offers more flexibility but might delay your recruitment outcome.

The Role of High School Coaches

High school coaches play a critical role in the athletic recruiting process, serving as both mentors and advocates for student-athletes. They help athletes develop their skills, understand the recruitment timeline, and identify which colleges or programs might be the best fit based on the athlete’s abilities and academic goals.

Coaches also facilitate communication between athletes and college recruiters by reaching out to their network of college coaches, providing references, and offering insights into the athlete’s work ethic, potential, and character.

Additionally, high school coaches often guide athletes in creating highlight reels, attending camps, and staying on track academically to meet eligibility requirements. Their support and connections can significantly enhance an athlete’s chances of securing a college scholarship.

Communicating with College Coaches

Communicating with college coaches during the high school recruiting process requires a proactive and strategic approach. Here’s how you can effectively engage with them:

• Initiate Contact Early: Start reaching out to college coaches during your sophomore or junior year, as early communication shows initiative. You can email coaches directly, introducing yourself, sharing your athletic achievements, academic records, and attaching your highlight reel. Make sure to personalize each email to the specific coach and program.

• Follow Up Regularly: After your initial contact, follow up with updates on your athletic progress, new stats, or achievements. Stay persistent, but respectful, by keeping your name and progress on the coach’s radar without overwhelming them.

• Respond Promptly: When a coach responds to your communication, reply promptly and professionally. Be clear and respectful, addressing any questions they may have and maintaining a positive tone.

• Attend Recruiting Events: Coaches often attend showcases, camps, and tournaments to scout talent. If you know a coach will be present, send them a message beforehand to express your interest in their program and let them know you’ll be attending.

• Ask Questions: Show your genuine interest in their program by asking thoughtful questions about the team, training schedules, scholarship opportunities, and the recruiting process itself. This helps demonstrate that you’ve done your homework and are serious about their program.

• Be Professional on Social Media: Many coaches use social media platforms like Twitter or Instagram to follow and communicate with recruits. Ensure your profiles are clean, professional, and focused on your athletic journey, and use these platforms to engage with coaches.

• Send a Thank-You Note: After attending an official or unofficial visit, always follow up with a thank-you note or email to express your appreciation for their time and reiterate your interest in the program.

Sport-Specific Considerations

Football

• Combines and National Signing Day: Attending football combines is essential for exposure, as coaches often use these events to evaluate recruits. National Signing Day is a pivotal moment when commitments are made official, so preparing early and understanding this timeline is key.

• Scholarship Limits: NCAA Division I football teams have 85 full scholarships, while FCS programs have 63, which can be split. Knowing these limits helps athletes understand competition for scholarship spots.

Basketball

• AAU Leagues and Exposure Events: Participation in AAU leagues and attending national exposure events is critical for basketball recruits to showcase their skills to coaches outside of their high school seasons.

• Recruiting Calendars: Understanding the NCAA basketball recruiting calendar, including quiet and dead periods, ensures athletes make the most of allowable contact periods.

Baseball

• Summer Leagues and Showcases: College baseball coaches scout heavily during summer leagues and showcase events, so participating in these is crucial for gaining visibility.

• Balancing High School and Club Teams: Juggling high school seasons and club teams is common in baseball. Athletes need to manage both to stay in top form and maximize exposure.

Soccer

• ID Camps and International Opportunities: ID camps are a great way for soccer athletes to be seen by college coaches. For those with dual nationality or international experience, pursuing opportunities abroad can also enhance recruitment prospects.

• Importance of Video Analysis: Coaches rely heavily on video analysis for soccer recruits, especially in international or far-flung regions. A professionally edited highlight reel is often the first point of contact.

Track and Field

• Performance Standards: Track and field recruiting focuses on meeting or exceeding performance standards. Understanding the benchmarks for your events will give you a clear target to work towards.

• Importance of Consistent Improvement: Showing steady improvement in times, distances, or personal records (PRs) can catch a coach’s attention and demonstrate potential for future growth.

Swimming

• National Meets and Times: Success in national meets and posting competitive times in your primary strokes are key factors in swimming recruitment. Times are objective measures, so hitting certain benchmarks is critical.

• Recruitment for Different Strokes: Different programs may need specific strokes more than others. Knowing where your strengths lie and targeting programs that need those specialties can improve your chances.

Wrestling

• Major Tournaments and Rankings: Coaches attend major tournaments like the Fargo Nationals, Super 32, and state championships to evaluate wrestlers. National rankings, such as FloWrestling’s rankings, play a significant role in recruiting decisions.

• Weight Class and Versatility: Coaches value athletes who perform well across multiple weight classes and demonstrate the ability to wrestle different styles, as this versatility can make an athlete more desirable.

Volleyball

• Club Volleyball and National Championships: Coaches often recruit heavily from club volleyball teams, especially during tournaments like the USA Volleyball Junior National Championships and AAU Nationals, where top talent is showcased.

• Height and Positional Play: College volleyball coaches emphasize physical attributes like height and wingspan, particularly for certain positions (e.g., middle blocker or outside hitter). Demonstrating elite positional play and strong fundamentals is crucial.

Tennis

• USTA Tournaments and ITF Junior Circuit: USTA national tournaments and the ITF Junior Circuit are prime recruiting grounds for tennis coaches, who seek athletes with strong match play and competitive rankings.

• Universal Tennis Rating (UTR) and Rankings: A player’s UTR is often used by college coaches as an objective measure of skill level. High UTR scores and consistent performance in sanctioned events can significantly boost recruiting prospects.

Academic Requirements

GPA and SAT/ACT Scores: Maintaining a strong GPA and achieving competitive SAT/ACT scores are crucial for meeting NCAA academic eligibility and increasing your attractiveness to schools.

NCAA Clearinghouse Registration: Registering with the NCAA Eligibility Center early ensures your academic progress and amateur status are tracked. This is a mandatory step for D1 and D2 athletes.

Balancing Academics and Athletics: Student-athletes must find a balance between rigorous training and academic commitments. Time management skills are essential to succeed both in the classroom and on the field.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

FAFSA and Financial Aid Packages: Completing the FAFSA is essential for determining financial aid eligibility, even for student-athletes who receive scholarships. Some programs may only offer partial scholarships.

Merit-based Scholarships: In addition to athletic scholarships, student-athletes should apply for merit-based scholarships that reward academic achievement.

Combining Athletic and Academic Scholarships: Many student-athletes receive a mix of athletic and academic scholarships. Understanding how these work together can make a significant financial difference.

Creating a Compelling Athletic Resume

Key Elements to Include: A strong athletic resume should include your personal information, athletic stats, athletic and academic achievements (in reverse chronological order), and a link / QR code to your highlight reel.

Formatting Tips: Keep the resume concise, well-organized, and tailored to each coach. Use bullet points and make important information easy to find. Consider margins, spacing, font, color, and formatting. This could be a nice spinoff article - with sample athletic resumes.

How to Stand Out: Highlight key achievements that set you apart, such as MVP awards, leadership roles, and notable performances in high-pressure situations.

Building an Online Presence

Utilizing Social Media: Platforms like Twitter and Instagram are important for building your brand and sharing highlights. Follow and engage with college coaches and programs on these platforms.

Creating a Personal Website: A personal website that includes your athletic resume, video highlights, and contact information can serve as a professional portfolio for coaches. Free website platforms like Wix, Squarespace, etc., can give you that online presence at no cost.

Engaging with College Coaches Online: Use email and social media to communicate with coaches. Always remain professional and courteous in your online interactions. Be sure to use an email address that is appropriate for these communications (no references to anything that could create a negative impression of you - provocative, divisive, illegal, etc.).

Interviewing with Coaches

Common Questions Asked: Be prepared to answer questions about your academic interests, athletic goals, why you’re interested in their program, and how you handle pressure.

How to Prepare: Practice responses to common interview questions and research each school’s program so you can ask insightful questions during the interview. Examples of good questions to ask might include:

• About the Program:

• How do you see me fitting into your program?

• What is the team culture like, both on and off the field?

• What does a typical day or week look like for a student-athlete during the season and off-season?

• What kind of off-season training and support is provided?

• How would you describe your coaching style?

• Development, Opportunities & Playing Time:

• What are the expectations for incoming freshmen in terms of playing time and contributing to the team?

• How do you handle injuries and recovery for athletes?

• Academic Support & Resources:

• What academic resources are available for athletes?

• How does the coaching staff stay involved with academic progress?

• What are the expectations around GPA?

• Are there opportunities for internships, networking, or other career development through the athletic program?

Making a Good Impression: Show enthusiasm, confidence, and a genuine interest in both the academic and athletic aspects of the program. Pay attention to grooming and attire, ensuring you're looking sharp and dressed right for the occasion. For women, a nice blouse or sweater with khakis or jeans (without rips) is appropriate. For men, a polo or button-down with khakis or well-fitting jeans is appropriate. Keep good eye contact, give a solid handshake, and show confidence.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Understanding Scholarship Agreements: Before committing, ensure you understand the terms of your scholarship, including academic and athletic requirements for renewal.

NCAA Compliance and Rules: Stay aware of NCAA rules regarding recruitment, amateurism, and eligibility to avoid jeopardizing your athletic career.

Handling Offers and Commitments: Be cautious when making verbal commitments and ensure you have all scholarship offers in writing before making your final decision.

Post-Commitment Steps

Staying in Shape and Avoiding Injuries: After committing, continue training to stay in top form while also taking steps to avoid injury before your collegiate career begins.

Preparing for College Life: Learn how to balance the demands of college academics and athletics by developing strong time management and study habits.

Transitioning from High School to College Athletics: College athletics require a higher level of discipline and intensity. Mentally and physically prepare for this shift.

Success Stories and Testimonials

Interviews with College Athletes: Hear firsthand experiences from current or former college athletes about their recruiting journey and the challenges they faced.

Lessons Learned and Advice: Learn from their experiences, including what they wish they had known during the recruitment process.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Overcommitting to One School: Don’t focus solely on one school until you have offers in hand. Keep your options open throughout the recruitment process.

Neglecting Academics: Don’t ignore your academic responsibilities, even after receiving an offer, as that can jeopardize both your scholarship and eligibility.

Dealing with Rejection: Rejection is part of the process. Stay persistent, stay positive, keep improving, and apply to a range of schools to increase your chances.

Resources and Further Reading

Books and Articles: Look for books and articles that provide in-depth advice on recruitment and personal development as a student-athlete.

Websites and Online Tools: Use online tools like NCSA or Hudl to connect with coaches and manage your recruitment process.

Support Organizations: Consider joining organizations like the National Scouting Report (NSR) for additional support in your recruitment journey.

Putting it All Together

Recap of Key Points: To maximize your chances of getting recruited, focus on excelling in both athletics and academics, being proactive with coaches, and staying organized in your approach.

Encouragement and Final Tips: Stay persistent, be open to new opportunities, and always seek improvement, both on and off the field.