Tips for Applying for College Athletic Scholarships?

I'm a junior seriously considering applying for athletic scholarships. How can I best prepare my application, and are there any specific steps I should follow to increase my chances of being recruited?

Firstly, it's important to note that collegiate coaches are looking for athletes who will add value to their team and also benefit academically from the university. With this in mind, here are a few steps to help you prepare your application and position yourself as a strong candidate:

1. Academics matter: Ensure you're maintaining a strong GPA. Most colleges have academic standards that athletes need to meet, and a better than average academic performance may make you more attractive to certain programs.

2. Highlight Your Athletic Abilities: A comprehensive profile that includes your stats, records and any awards won should be assembled and updated regularly. It's advisable to create either a dedicated segment in your portfolio or an online profile where you can showcase these stats effectively.

3. Video Footage: Videos can be invaluable in showcasing your skills to coaches who might not be able to see you play live. Ensure that it's high-quality footage, preferably from multiple games to highlight consistency. This, paired with your stats, is often the first thing coaches review before considering recruitment.

4. Make Contact With Coaches: Prepare a well-written, personalised email to coaches at the schools you're interested in. The email should clearly state your name, high school, graduation year, and sport. It should also include a link to your profile or portfolio, and potentially your game schedule, should they want to scout you in the field.

5. Visit Schools: Attending sports camps or visiting schools and meeting with the coaches can make a significant difference. It can showcase your commitment and allows you to assess if the school, its athletic program and the coach would fit your aspirations.

6. Register with NCAA or NAIA: These organisations govern college athletics and you need to be certified by them to play at most schools. Start this process early, as it can take time to gather the necessary documents and information.

Remember, being proactive is key when applying for an athletic scholarship. Don't limit yourself to just one school or division, explore all your options. Junior Colleges and NAIA schools often offer athletic scholarships and give athletes the ability to transfer to larger Division I and II schools later. Remember, the goal should be to not only play your sport at the collegiate level but also earn your degree. Best of luck with your process!