At IG Sports, we understand that the college recruiting process is a challenging and complex journey that requires proactive effort from student athletes. We believe in equipping athletes with the knowledge and resources they need to navigate this process successfully. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Start Early: College recruiting is beginning earlier each year, with top programs seeking talented High School freshmen and sophomore athletes. We encourage athletes to begin the recruiting process before their junior year in High School to maximize their chances of landing a spot on a college team.
2. Take Initiative: Instead of waiting for coaches to reach out to you, be proactive in reaching out to college coaches. Craft a compelling introduction email that highlights your academic and athletic achievements, showcasing your interest in their athletic program.
3. Understand the Recruiting Funnel: The recruiting process is like a funnel, with thousands of potential recruits at the top and only a few receiving offers at the bottom. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with how coaches evaluate recruits and how to progress through the different stages of the funnel, from initial evaluations to official visits and offers.
4. Level Set Your Talent and Expectations: It is important to have an objective view of your abilities and compare yourself to other student athletes. Spend some time researching college rosters and seek evaluations from trusted sources like IG Sports to determine your level of competitiveness and identify the right division level for your athletic goals.
5. Explore Division Levels: Familiarize yourself with the different division levels, such as NCAA Division I, Division II, Division III, NAIA, NJCAA and NCCAA. Understand the unique characteristics, competition levels and scholarship opportunities available in each division.
6. Prioritize Academic Eligibility: Academic performance plays a crucial role in the recruiting process. Maintaining a strong Grade Point Average (GPA) and standardized test scores opens up more opportunities for scholarships and demonstrates your commitment to both academics and athletics.
7. International Athletes: If you are an international student athlete, it is important for you to be aware of the specific considerations and requirements involved in the recruiting process. International athletes may have additional academic and eligibility requirements, so it is important to understand these nuances.
At IG Sports, we provide guidance, support and resources to help student athletes navigate every aspect of the college recruiting process. Our goal is to empower athletes and their families to make informed decisions and achieve their dreams of competing at the collegiate level.