What's involved in the baseball college recruiting process?

I'm a high school baseball player aiming to get recruited by colleges. Can someone walk me through the basic process of getting noticed and what steps I should take to improve my chances?

The college baseball recruiting process involves several steps, from making yourself noticeable to the recruiters, showcasing your skills by playing at a high level, to communicating effectively with the coaches.

1. Create an Athletic Resume & Highlight Video: Your resume should include your academic records, SAT/ACT scores, baseball stats, positions played, and any notable achievements. Your video should highlight your technique, skill, speed, and body language. Make this video and resume easily accessible online through a recruiting profile.

2. Play in Competitive Leagues: In order to be noticed, you must compete at the highest levels possible in high school and/or travel ball. Participate in showcases, competitive travel teams, or elite baseball camps that often attract recruiters.

3. Reach Out to Coaches Directly: You can and should directly reach out to coaches at the colleges you're interested in. Send them your resume and highlight video, express your interest in their program, and ask about their recruitment process. Remember to follow the NCAA’s contact rules in terms of timing and frequency of communication.

4. Keep Your Academics in Check: College coaches look at not just your athletic abilities but your academic achievements as well. Be sure to maintain strong grades and take challenging classes to enhance your profile from an academic standpoint.

5. Official and Unofficial Visits: Unofficial visits are any trips you take to a college campus on your own. You can meet with the coach (with some restrictions based on your year), check out the campus, and even watch games. Official visits are paid for by the college, usually happen during senior year, and are typically offered to athletes the coach is seriously considering.

6. Understand the Scholarship Limitations: Baseball is an equivalency sport, meaning that coaches divide the total number of scholarships among a greater number of players. Only a few receive full scholarships.

7. Maintain Communication and Follow Up: It's important to stay in touch with the coaches once communication has begun and always follow up after visits.

Remember, the NCAA also has strict rules regarding eligibility, so ensure that you meet all their requirements. You must register with the NCAA Eligibility Center to verify your academic and amateur status as well.

Getting recruited for college sport is an involved process but staying proactive and organized can help you navigate it successfully. Wishing you the best of luck!