Getting Track and Field Scholarships for College?

I'm an athlete aiming for a track and field scholarship. Any advice on what recruiters look for, and maybe some tips on how to stand out? Are there specific times or achievements I should aim for?

Track and field scholarships are a great way to help cover the cost of college while continuing to compete in a sport you love. In order to increase your chances, there are several things you can do.

When it comes to times and achievements, the specific benchmarks will vary depending on the level of competition at the colleges you're considering. For Division I schools, recruiters usually look for high school athletes who are among the top in their state. For lower divisions, regional leadership can often suffice.

Engaging directly with college coaches can make a huge difference. Start by researching colleges with track and field programs that match your academic and athletic goals. Don't limit yourself to only Division I schools; smaller colleges in the Division II, Division III, or NAIA may not have as much name recognition, but they often have competitive programs and can offer meaningful financial aid, sometimes even more so than their Division I counterparts.

Once you've identified schools of interest, reach out to the coaches. Email them with your times, academic achievements, and why you're interested in their program. Include a link to a video showcasing your abilities if you have one. Make sure you're reaching out at a time when they're able to respond; NCAA has specific rules about when coaches can communicate with prospective athletes.

Remember the importance of your academic record along with your prowess on the track. Not only do grades and test scores often determine eligibility for athletic participation at the college level, they can also open up additional scholarship opportunities. Many track and field scholarships are in fact partially based on academic merit.

Lastly, perform at your best in noteworthy competitions. College coaches pay a lot of attention to district, state, and national track and field championships. If you perform well, you'll have a greater chance of being noticed and recruited.

Good luck with your journey! Keep pushing your limits and never lose sight of your end goal.