What should I know about the process of being recruited for college diving?

I'm a high school diver aiming to compete in college, but I'm not sure what the recruiting and scouting process is like. How can I get noticed by college coaches, and what steps should I be taking right now?

Firstly, it's great that you're being proactive about the recruitment process. There are a few steps you should follow to improve your chances of being noticed by college coaches.

1. Academic Performance: Maintaining good grades is fundamental. Not only does it make you an attractive candidate on the academic front, but it also demonstrates your ability to balance athletics and academics. This translates to better performance in college where strong time-management skills are needed.

2. Diving Skills: Improvement and consistent performance in your diving meets is key. Be ready to participate in high level competitions and aim to excel in it.

3. Highlight Video: Many coaches discover athletes through videos that show their skills and abilities. So it's a good idea to create a well-designed highlight video of your best performances and send it to colleges you're interested in.

4. Be Proactive: Start reaching out to college coaches, expressing your interest, send them your diving stats, personal bests, and even your athletic resume. It's good to maintain consistent communication with the colleges you're interested in.

5. Official Visits: If possible, set up an official visit to the university to meet the coaches and team. This is a great way for you to get a vibe of the team dynamics, the facilities, as well as opportunities to ask detailed questions you might have about the program.

6. NCAA Guidelines: Be sure to follow NCAA guidelines strictly. Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center and conform to any other NCAA protocols necessary for recruits.

Remember, while it's important to focus on your diving achievements, don't neglect the holistic aspect of the college application process. Ensure you balance your academics and other activities as colleges seek well-rounded applicants. Good luck with your college journey!