Advice for Student Athletes Applying to the Naval Academy?

I'm a junior in high school and an athlete looking at the Naval Academy. How does athletic recruitment work, and are there special considerations for athletes during the admissions process?

Athletes interested in attending the United States Naval Academy (USNA) can have a unique path to entrance compared to traditional applicants, often through athletic recruitment. There are three athletic divisions at the Naval Academy: Intercollegiate, Club, and Intramural. Most recruited athletes play at the intercollegiate level.

The recruitment process for the Naval Academy begins with being scouted by or reaching out to USNA coaches in your respective sport. You'll want to share your high school playing statistics, any footage of your games, and express your serious interest in the Naval Academy. Create a sports resume that includes significant highlights, measurable statistics, and the contact information for your current coach.

If the Naval Academy coaches are interested, they'll often help navigate the rigorous application process, which can give athletes an advantage. However, it's important to understand that this doesn't guarantee admission. All midshipmen, whether they are athletes or not, must meet the same admission standards. For USNA, this process includes obtaining a nomination (usually from a U.S. Senator or U.S. Representative), passing a medical exam, and completing the Candidate Fitness Assessment.

Remember, the Naval Academy isn't just looking for great athletes—they're looking for future officers. So while your athletic prowess is crucial for recruitment, it’s just as important to demonstrate leadership, discipline, respect, and a readiness to serve and learn both in and out of the classroom. Coaches will look at your character, academic performance, and interest in military service just as intently as they scrutinize your game tape.

Finally, it may be beneficial to attend the sports camps that the Naval Academy hosts during the summer. This can provide you with more exposure to the coaches and allow them to evaluate your skills firsthand.

To conclude, being a recruited athlete can provide an extra edge, but ultimately, admission is based on your holistic application—athletics, academia, character and leadership, and commitment to service. In this journey, maintain open lines of communication with your potential coaches and let your passion for both your sport and the Naval Academy shine through. Good luck on this exciting journey!