How can I get recruited for swimming at the Naval Academy?

I'm interested in swimming at the Naval Academy and hoping to get recruited. Does anyone know what the recruiting process is like and what the coaches look for in potential swimmers?

Couple of things to note about recruitment at the Naval Academy. Firstly, as a service academy, it's a bit of a unique situation compared to civilian schools. The Naval Academy specifically looks for well-rounded student-athletes who have a strong academic background, thrive in leadership roles, and can meet physical fitness requirements.

In terms of swimming, each coach may have specific criteria, but generally, they will look at your times, your improvement rate, your performance under pressure, and your teamwork skills. Having a strong level of competitiveness and the ability to work well in a team is often seen as a plus.

The recruitment process begins quite early, so it's in your best interest to reach out as soon as you can. You typically start the process by filling out a questionnaire on the school’s athletics website. This will likely include information about your academic performance, athletic achievements, and your personal contact details. The coaches use questionnaires to identify athletes to recruit, so make sure you fill it out fully and honestly.

After you complete the questionnaire, it's a good idea to follow up with an email to the coaches. Include a brief introduction about yourself, explain why you're interested in their program and school, share your swim stats, and attach your swim resume if you have one.

If the coaches are interested, they will reach out to you, this could start off with emails and phone calls and progress to official visits. These visits will give you an opportunity to meet the team, tour the athletic and academic facilities, sit in on classes, and get an overall feel for the school.

Finally, and most importantly, make sure that you meet academic and personal character standards essential for appointment to the Naval Academy. Remember, you not only have to be accepted by the coach, but also by the admissions office.

Give it your best shot, and remember every coach and program is different, some may be more responsive than others. Good luck with your recruitment process!