The 411 of Athletic Recruitment

Mr. James Davidson

Dr. John Schnedeker

Mr. Chris Wakley

Topics Covered

Preparing for the Recruiting ProcessUnderstanding the NCAA ClearinghouseThe College Perspective on Recruitment

Getting Started

You have communicated to your coach a desire to play college sports.

You understand the level of commitment both Athletically Academically

Make unofficial visits to colleges during school breaks and summer vacation. Call ahead

Getting Started, cont.

You make your counselor aware of your intentions so that they can support the work you’re doing with the coach.

Counselor can help you project where the “best academic fits” might be.

Coach can help you project where the “best athletic fits” might be.

Build an Athletic Resume

Highlight athletic accomplishmentsHighlight future showcases and events

where coaches can witness your talentsHighlight academic strengths such as

PSAT’s SAT’s Unofficial Transcripts Academic Interests

Develop a Testing Plan

Work with your counselor to review appropriate testing dates for SAT/ACT so that they don’t come in conflict with your “busy season.”

Interest Levels

Fill out ALL college questionnaires to generate the most interest

Return phone calls/emails from coachesMake phone calls/emails to coachesSchedule visits to colleges/coaches

Official vs. unofficial

Considerations in selecting a college

Realistic about the academic and athletic levels of competition

Academic and athletic interests

Geographic location Official visits - talk to

players, coaches, advisors

Academic support programs

Integrity of staff - honesty, trust

Personality of team, players, students

Financial Aid

Other pieces of Information to rememberBe aware of signing datesHave film/tapes to back up athletic

capabilitiesHave academic information ready ahead

of timeStay on top of appointment datesCommunicate as much as possibleBE PROACTIVE

Helpful Hints

Evaluation Process The importance of

understanding showcases

Character Development - ability to fit within the program and attitude towards teammates, coaches, etc

What if?

Make sure you have a back up plan Prepare additional

applications Be open to other

competitive levels of sports

Understand “walk-on” options

Things to be AWARE of

Recruiting a school Verbal/Written

Commitment letters Each college has

different athletic admissions processes

How the process changes from year to year