5 College Recruitment Tips for High School Athletes

If you played youth sports, competed in endless tournaments, and love playing your favorite sport just for fun, then chances are, you want to play at the collegiate level. There’s no doubt that the journey from high school sports to the collegiate level is an exciting but often complex one. It requires talent, dedication, and a proactive approach to the recruitment process.

But where do you start? What are your options? We answer this and more, just keep reading!

How High School Athletes Can Get Recruited 

If you're a high school athlete with dreams of competing in college, follow these five college recruitment tips to navigate the path ahead and increase your chances of getting noticed.

1. Excel Academically

College coaches aren't just looking for athletic prowess; they're seeking well-rounded individuals who can succeed in the classroom as well. Strong grades and solid standardized test scores are crucial for eligibility and can open doors to a wider range of institutions. First, focus on your GPA as it could be the key to even being accepted into the college you’re looking at. If you don’t have at least the minimum GPA requirement as an athlete, then chances are, you won’t be accepted into the school. Do your best to maintain the highest grades possible!

Prepare for standardized tests, as there are SAT and ACT requirements for colleges you might be interested in. Beyond just your GPA, what other requirements do you need to meet?

Also, ensure that you understand NCAA and NAIA academic eligibility rules. Familiarize yourself with the specific academic requirements set by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) early in your high school career. This includes core course requirements, GPA minimums, and test score thresholds. Don't wait until your senior year to figure this out!

2. Hone Your Athletic Skills and Seek High-Level Competition

While academics are vital, your athletic talent is what will initially catch a coach's eye. Yes, this means that you should be the best you can be in your sport. It sounds simple, but you have to hone your skill - dedicate yourself to training, practice, and skill development. Work on your weaknesses and continue to refine your strengths so that you can compete at a high level. Participate in competitive leagues, tournaments, and showcases where college coaches are known to scout. This provides exposure to college recruiters and allows you to compete against other talented athletes. For example, playing for a reputable club team in soccer or participating in national-level track and field meets can significantly increase your visibility.

Get feedback from your coaches and act on it. Your high school and club coaches are valuable resources. They can provide honest assessments of your abilities and may even have connections with college coaches. Don’t burn a bridge just because you assume it’s a waste of time.

3. Be Proactive in the Recruitment Process

Don't wait for college coaches to find you – take an active role in the recruitment process. First, research colleges that fit your athletic and academic goals. Identify institutions that offer your sport and have academic programs that interest you. Consider factors like affordability, size, location, and athletic division (NCAA Division I, II, III; NAIA). 

Start early and build an athletic resume or profile that includes your academic information (such as GPA and test scores), athletic achievements (stats, awards, records), and contact information. Don’t forget to include high-quality video footage of your skills and gameplay.

When you’re ready, take the first step and reach out to college coaches. Don’t just copy and paste the same message to every coach; do the research first! Send personalized introductory emails to coaches at the programs you're interested in, talk about what interests you about the school and the coach, the team, and more. Is it their playing style? Their record? This level of research will stand out in your outreach! Of course, you should also introduce yourself, highlight your key athletic and academic achievements, and express your interest in their program. Be sure that you include the link to your athletic resume or profile and video. PS, be professional in your correspondence and proofread meticulously! Double-check that the coach’s name is spelled correctly - trust us, this happens more often than you think.

This is a given, but attend college camps and showcases as these events provide opportunities to showcase your skills directly to college coaches and learn more about their programs. Choose camps strategically, focusing on schools you are genuinely interested in.

4. Build Strong Relationships and Network

Recruitment isn't just about your individual performance; it's also about how you interact with others. College coaches often inquire about an athlete's character and coachability. Being a team player and demonstrating a positive attitude are crucial. Coaches are often looking for a certain personality and work ethic, not just your skills.

Beyond your interpersonal relationships, don’t hesitate to network with people in the sports community. Attend recruiting seminars, talk to former college athletes, and build connections that might provide insights or opportunities. Don’t hesitate to reach out to alumni from a university you’re interested in, ask if they have some time to answer questions, and if they’re open to guiding you through the recruitment process.

This is a big one in today’s culture, but be mindful of what you’re sharing online. This goes back to your character and how your personality fits into the culture and your coachability. Be mindful of your online presence, as college coaches may review your social media accounts. Therefore, present yourself in a positive and responsible manner when posting online.

5. Understand the Recruiting Timeline and Be Patient

The college recruiting process can take time, and timelines can vary depending on the sport and the level of competition. Begin the process as early as your freshman or sophomore year of high school by focusing on academics and skill development.

Don't get discouraged by the initial lack of responses. Depending on the division, some coaches may not be allowed to respond, as your age is a factor. For example, Division 1 coaches can only talk to juniors and up. Do you research first and follow up with coaches as you pursue opportunities.

Be Prepared With Our College Recruitment Tips

Getting recruited for college sports is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires a combination of athletic talent, academic dedication, proactive communication, and perseverance. By following these college recruitment tips and staying committed to your goals, you can significantly increase your chances of achieving your dream of competing at the collegiate level. Good luck!