How does the college recruiting process work for high school athletes?

I'm involved in sports and I know some of my teammates are being recruited. How does the college sports recruitment process work for high school athletes? Any tips on making a good impression?

The college sports recruiting process can be a complex one, consisting of various stages. It usually starts with athletic talent identification and then proceeds to evaluations, official or unofficial visits to a school, and extends through the offer of an athletic scholarship or a roster position, to the signing of a National Letter of Intent.

Initially, it's about getting noticed. You want to be on the radar of college coaches, so make sure you're playing at a high level in your high school or sports club. Coaches often discover new recruits through athletic games, tournaments, camps, combines, and showcase events, so make an effort to showcase your talents in as many settings as possible. They may also rely on scouting agencies or recommendations.

Next comes communication. Coaches may reach out to athletes directly or through their current coach to indicate interest. The rules about when and how a coach can contact an athlete may vary by the athlete’s year in high school and the specific sport and division level, in compliance with NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) regulations.

When it comes to making a good impression, consider building a solid athletic resume and a highlight reel. The resume should include your athletic stats, academic achievements (like GPA and SAT/ACT scores), awards, and extracurricular activities. The highlight reel should include video footage of your best moments in games, showcasing your skills, technique, and understanding of the game.

Another important tip is to maintain consistent communication with the coaches once they contact you. Show interest in their program and stay proactive in providing updated information about your sports progress and academic stats.

Finally, college visits are a crucial part of recruitment. Coaches might invite you to visit the campus officially (usually limited and often offered to top recruits) or unofficially. During your visit, you will likely tour the campus, and facilities, meet team members, and coaches, and possibly attend a class or a game. This also provides you with an opportunity to assess whether the school and the team would be a good fit for you.

Remember, while it's great to be recruited for your athletic accomplishments, maintaining strong academic performance is equally, if not more important. It's a balancing act, and colleges will be interested in athletes who excel both on the field and in the classroom.

Good luck with your recruitment process!