Playing a sport in college requires immense skill and dedication both academically and athletically. However, there is more to securing a college sports scholarship than dedication and skill alone – mastering the recruiting process is vital.
Many begin the recruiting process by creating a profile on Next College Student Athlete (NCSA) in order for coaches to easily view statistics, grades, awards and a personal statement. Making a three to five minute long highlight video is also essential for a complete profile. Student athletes with a highlight video are 12 times more likely to be viewed by a college coach on NCSA.
However, athletes often have to initiate contact with coaches before the coaches will look at their recruiting profile. Emailing a coach with statistics and rankings is important, but also including your strong passion for the sport and reasons you would make a great fit for the college will make the email stand out.
Another great way to gain exposure is to attend college camps and showcases. Focusing on having a great attitude, playing well under pressure and giving 100% will show a college coach strong work ethic.
Additionally, it is important to attend camps with coaches of the division you plan to play for. It is unnecessary to attend a D1 camp or showcase when you will most likely play for a D3 school or vice versa.
At this point in the recruiting process, visiting the potential college on an official or unofficial visit is a perfect way to view the facilities, meet the coaches, and form relationships with potential teammates.
Senior Campbell Cummins, a signee for Berry College’s swim team, began her recruiting process by emailing and calling the coach at Berry. She then was invited to attend a recruitment trip at Berry and spent the night with a member of the team, officially met the coaches, attended classes for her intended major and more.
“The last day of the trip was spent in meetings with the coaches to talk about what the future might look like. This is where I found out that I had secured a spot on the team and all I had to do was claim my spot,” said Cummins.
Starting the recruiting process early on will ease stress and solidify your future before the end of senior year.
Cummins advice is to be bold when really desiring to be recruited.
“My strongest advice to those looking to continue their sport in college is not to be afraid to ask questions and to reach out to the coaches at schools that you truly want to attend.”
Even though choosing to play a sport in college for the next four years can be intimidating, there are so many memories that lay ahead, and it will all work out how it is supposed to.
“Always remember you are placed where you are meant to be,” stated Cummins.
