Hoping to compete in college sports, where to start?

I've played soccer since I remember. Now, I'm intrigued about walking on in college. What's generally the easiest sport to walk-on to in college if I want to continue my athletic journey in addition to academics?

Taking the step to transition from high school sports to collegiate athletics is significant and requires planning. When it comes to walking on, it can be difficult to specify which sport is "easiest" to walk on to because it varies by both the school and the sport's popularity. Soccer, for instance, can be highly competitive at schools where the program is strong or the sport is popular.

However, colleges that perhaps don't have as prominent athletic programs, or those where your specific sport isn't as popular, might have more openings. Smaller sports teams, such as swimming or track and field, may also have more available spots due to the larger team sizes.

Here are a few steps you can take to increase your chances of walking onto a team:

1. Practice Regularly: Of course, the first and most crucial step is to continually practice and improve your skills.

2. Research: Look at colleges that have a track record of accepting walk-ons in your sport. Once you've narrowed down the schools, learn about their tryout process. Some colleges hold open tryouts, while others prefer that students reach out directly for an evaluation.

3. Create a Highlight Reel: Compile your best plays or moments from recent games into a short video. This could showcase your skills and give the coach an idea of your potential.

4. Contact Coaches: Don't be shy about reaching out to the coach. Send an email expressing your interest and providing information like your high school stats and any athletic achievements.

5. Attend Camps and Clinics: Many college sports programs host summer camps or clinics. Attending these events could help you improve your skills while also demonstrating your dedication to the sport.

Remember, college sports are a significant commitment, so make sure you're ready to balance the demands of your sport with your other personal and academic responsibilities.