Ways Athletic Scholarships Can Help Kids Attend College

My parents and I are looking into athletic scholarships as a means to afford college. I'm curious about the types of scholarships available and any tips you might have for successfully applying for them.

Athletic scholarships can indeed be an effective avenue to relieve some of the financial burdens associated with attending college. They range in variety, and could cover partial to entire tuition costs, room and board, or books and supplies. Essentially, you're awarded them based on the evaluations of college athletic recruiters or coaches who are on the lookout for talent that can enhance their collegiate sports teams. However, it's important to know that such scholarships are quite competitive.

At the Division I and II levels, the NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) permits schools to give scholarships for athletics. Division III schools, on the other hand, do not offer athletic scholarships, but they do offer need-based financial aid and merit scholarships. You also have the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) and the NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association) that offer athletic scholarships.

Tips for a successful application process:

1. Excel in both Academia and Athletics: Striving for healthy grades makes you an appealing candidate for colleges. Achieving success in your sport and in the classroom can be tricky, yet it's entirely attainable with disciplined time management. Remember, colleges are searching for student-athletes, not just athletes.

2. Reach Out to Coaches: You should learn the ropes of how to establish contact with college coaches. They're crucial to landing athletic scholarships, so ready a succinct but engaging letter of introduction, showcasing your academic and athletic accomplishments and target schools that fit both your academic and athletic profiles.

3. Produce a Highlight Video: A well-structured highlight reel can serve as a vivid testament to your athletic prowess. Including apt commentary or timestamps can make it easier for coaches to pinpoint your skill sets.

4. Participate Actively in Your Sport: Attend sport camps to improve your skills and gain exposure. The more visible you are in your sport community, the more likely you are to catch an athletic recruiter's eye.

5. Apply Everywhere: You don’t have to restrict yourself to just NCAA schools. NAIA and NJCAA colleges can also be a lucrative source of scholarships. Cast a wide net and explore all possible options.

6. Seek Guidance: Rely on your current coaches and athletic director for help. They can guide you in reaching out to college coaches, keeping track of deadlines, and understanding regulations

Keep in mind that the allocation of these scholarships is not just about athletic prowess, but also about academic standards, character assessment, and leadership potential. Good luck with your applications!