Can you play college football without high school experience?

I've never played football in high school, but I think I have decent athletic ability. Is it possible to join a college football team without any high school experience, or will coaches not consider me because of that? Thanks!

It's definitely possible to join a college football team without high school experience, but it will likely present some additional challenges. Coaches often recruit based on high school performance, so you may not have the same visibility to them as other athletes. However, there are several ways you can still pursue your goal:

1. Choose the right college: Consider smaller colleges, such as Division III schools, where athletic programs may be more open to accepting players with less experience. The competition level may not be as high as at larger Division I programs, but you can still gain valuable experience and enjoy playing college football.

2. Walk-on tryouts: Many college programs hold walk-on tryouts for students interested in playing football who may not have been heavily recruited. These tryouts are open to all students, and coaches often look for potential athletes with raw talent that they can develop. Do some research on the schools you're interested in attending and determine if they offer walk-on tryouts for their football program.

3. Off-season training: If you're serious about pursuing college football, you should start training on your own to develop your skills, strength, and endurance. Invest time into practicing drills, working on your speed, and training in the gym to improve your overall athleticism. Demonstrating a strong work ethic and a commitment to improvement can go a long way in convincing coaches to give you a chance.

4. Attend football camps: While you may not have high school football experience, consider attending college prospect camps or regional football camps. These camps will not only help you improve your skills and gain exposure to coaches, but they can also provide networking opportunities and the chance to showcase your abilities in front of recruiters.

5. Network and reach out to coaches: Proactively contact college football coaches at the schools you're interested in attending. Share your athletic background and express your interest in their program. While you might not have a traditional high school football resume to present, emphasize your other athletic achievements and your dedication to learning the sport.

Remember, many athletes have overcome unconventional paths to pursue their dreams. It will be essential to have a strong work ethic, be persistent, stay determined, and demonstrate your passion for playing football. Good luck!