Intelligent Recruiting — The Game Plan for College Athletics

Ask The Expert

Looking for the right fit in a college makes all the difference in whether you will be happy — both as a student and as an athlete. What kinds of things make it the right fit?

School's focus/priorities match mine;
Graduation Rates/Retention Rates;
Options to change major;
Injury/Coach's philosophy?
What will a degree from this school mean?

Try hard to not let the attention from a coach steer you away from asking the hard questions... it is critical that you control the information and the agenda you receive, and that you take an active role in learning it for yourself.

When should I start contacting college coaches about recruiting me?

Coaches start recruiting "files" on prospective student athletes as early as 7th grade... 7th grade! Don't be concerned about being too early... it's better to have them know about you sooner rather than later.

Do I need to apply to the NCAA Eligibility Center if I plan to walk on?

If you intend to play at an NCAA Division I or II school, you must be registered in the Clearinghouse prior to your first practice. The college coach must also list you on the Institutional Request List (IRL).


Ask The Expert Looking for the right fit in a college makes all the difference in whether you will be happy — both as a student and as an athlete. What kinds of things make it the right fit? School's focus/priorities match mine; Graduation Rates/Retention Rates; Options to change major; Injury/Coach's philosophy? What will a degree from this school mean? Try hard to not let the attention from a coach steer you away from asking the hard questions... it is critical that you control the information and the agenda you receive, and that you take an active role in learning it for yourself. When should I start contacting college coaches about recruiting me? Coaches start recruiting "files" on prospective student athletes as early as 7th grade... 7th grade! Don't be concerned about being too early... it's better to have them know about you sooner rather than later. Do I need to apply to the NCAA Eligibility Center if I plan to walk on? If you intend to play at an NCAA Division I or II school, you must be registered in the Clearinghouse prior to your first practice. The college coach must also list you on the Institutional Request List (IRL).