things not to do when going through recruiting!

NCAA Recruiting: Most Common Pitfalls

Navigating the NCAA recruiting process can be challenging for high school athletes and their families. Understanding common pitfalls can help you avoid mistakes and increase your chances of success. Here are some of the most common pitfalls in NCAA recruiting and how to avoid them:

Pitfall: Not meeting the NCAA academic eligibility requirements can derail your recruitment process. Solution:

• Stay Academically Focused: Maintain a strong GPA and take the required core courses.
• Standardized Tests: Prepare for and take the SAT or ACT early, ensuring you meet the minimum score requirements.
• Eligibility Center: Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center and ensure your transcripts and test scores are submitted on time.

Pitfall: Waiting until your senior year to start the recruiting process can limit your opportunities. Solution:

• Early Engagement: Begin the recruiting process as early as freshman or sophomore year.
• Exposure: Attend camps, showcases, and tournaments to get on coaches' radars early.
• Communication: Start contacting college coaches and sending them your highlight videos and academic information as early as possible.

Pitfall: Failing to communicate effectively with college coaches can hurt your chances of being recruited. Solution:

• Regular Updates: Keep coaches informed about your progress, including academic achievements, athletic performances, and upcoming events.
• Professionalism: Respond to emails and calls promptly and professionally. Show genuine interest in their program.
• Follow-Up: If you don’t hear back from a coach, follow up politely. Persistence can demonstrate your commitment and interest.

Pitfall: Not using your high school or club coaches, trainers, and recruiting services to help with the process. Solution:

• Ask for Help: Request letters of recommendation and ask your coaches to reach out to college programs on your behalf.
• Recruiting Services: Consider using reputable recruiting services like Complete College Prospects to broaden your exposure and get professional guidance.

Pitfall: Limiting your options to only Division I programs can reduce your chances of playing college sports. Solution:

• Be Open-Minded: Consider opportunities at Division II, Division III, NAIA, and junior colleges. These programs also offer excellent athletic and academic experiences.
• Multiple Applications: Apply to a variety of schools to increase your chances of finding the right fit.

Pitfall: Not creating or updating a highlight video can make it harder for coaches to evaluate you. Solution:

• Professional Quality: Create a high-quality highlight video showcasing your best plays. Update it regularly.
• Visibility: Share your video on recruiting profiles, social media, and directly with college coaches.

Pitfall: Failing to visit campuses can lead to committing to a school that isn’t the right fit. Solution:

• Official and Unofficial Visits: Take both official and unofficial visits to schools you are interested in.
• Campus Tours: Meet with coaches, tour athletic facilities, and get a feel for the campus environment and academic programs.

Pitfall: Violating NCAA rules can lead to disqualification from the recruiting process. Solution:

• Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with the NCAA recruiting calendar and rules for contacting coaches, official visits, and signing National Letters of Intent.
• Compliance: Ensure all actions are compliant with NCAA regulations to avoid jeopardizing your eligibility.

Pitfall: Negative behavior or social media activity can turn off potential recruiters. Solution:

• Positive Conduct: Maintain good behavior on and off the field. Coaches value character and integrity.
• Social media: Be mindful of your social media presence. Post responsibly and avoid controversial or negative content.

Pitfall: Assuming you will get a full scholarship or not understanding the financial aid process can lead to financial strain. Solution:

• Realistic Expectations: Understand that full athletic scholarships are rare and most student-athletes receive partial scholarships.
• Financial Aid: Explore all financial aid options, including academic scholarships, grants, and loans.

Avoiding these common pitfalls can greatly enhance your chances of a successful NCAA recruiting experience. Stay proactive, informed, and flexible throughout the process to find the best fit for your athletic and academic goals.