HOT TIPS FOR YOUR SUCCESS

RECRUITING TIPS 

It is mandatory for you to register with the NCAA Clearinghouse if you want to participate any NCAA Division.

· To earn an athletic scholarship is the responsibility of the parents and athlete. Every year, there are parents and athletes who are wondering why their son or daughter is not recruited. Many parents seem to think this is the responsibility of the coach. It is not. Be proactive and get things done on your own.

· Talk with your high school coach and your parents to get a realistic evaluation of the competition that will be most suitable for your skill level.  You don’t want to waste your time and energy pursuing a level that is to high or low.  Please be honest with yourself. 

· Student Athletes need to take a serious approach during the recruiting process.  They should explore every advantage to uncover all the right opportunities.  Don’t wait until it’s too late and wonder why there are no offers on the table.

· You need to research the graduation ratio of student-athletes at the colleges of interest. This should be the deciding factor in choosing what school to attend.

· You need recommendation letters.  Always be sure and have at least three recommendation letters available at all times. You never know when these might come in handy. Start your plan early and be sure to always write a Thank You letter to those who do provide you with a recommendation.

· Student-athletes should be proactively with writing and calling college coaches. Coaches prefer to hear from the student, not the parent. They will respect that your independent and in charge of your business.

· Always try to participate in as many sports-related activities (club and summer leagues) as possible… Exposure, Exposure, Exposure… This will help refine your skills and gives you more exposure to college coaches.

· Last but not least, the primary reason for attending school is education. Your chosen sport is secondary to your academics.

· Know the geographic location of the colleges you are considering when evaluating your options. Is a Division III offer in a distant state far from home, a realistic option for you when a highly rated NAIA school is close by? 

· Athletes should always be conscious of their behavior on and off the field. You never know when a scout, recruiter or college coach is watching. One negative demonstration of poor sportsmanship could be a deciding factor whether or not you receive an athletic scholarship.

· You need to be conditioned and functioning at your maximum entering the spring of your junior year. Be in your best shape especially, during spring workouts and summer camps. A recruiting coach could be present at any time and make an evaluation of you. That evaluation may be your one and only opportunity to remain a potential prospect.

· Prior to your senior year attend camps over the summer. Local High School Coaches work many summer camps.  Research and attend camps primarily coached by the university’s own staff. Prospects should attend camps with colleges that have shown interest. This will increase your chances of receiving a scholarship. Remember: Talk with the camp coaches and get feedback.

· It is most important that you complete the student-athlete questionnaires that universities send back to you when your tape is received. Promptly complete the forms and return them. These forms enter the student-athlete into the college athletic database. If you receive duplicates we encourage you to complete the forms again.

· The most important key to your success is academic performance. The higher your GPA, SAT, ACT scores, and class rank, greatly increase your opportunities for being recruited by the academically elite universities. Excellent grades showcase your commitment to colleges and demonstrate discipline off the field. Remember: Scholarships are awarded athletically and ACADEMICALLY. Financial aid may also come from institutions or outside sources.