The Top 8 mistakes high school students and their families make during the college recruiting process.
Unrealistic Expectations: Some families have unrealistic expectations about the level of competition their child can compete at or the amount of athletic scholarship money they may receive. It's important to have an honest assessment of the student-athlete's abilities and to understand the highly competitive nature of college recruiting.
Lack of Research: Failing to thoroughly research potential colleges and their athletic programs can lead to a poor fit. Students and families should look into factors like academic offerings, team culture, coaching philosophies, and campus environment to ensure it aligns with their goals and values.
Improper Communication: Inappropriate communication with college coaches, such as being overly aggressive or failing to respond promptly, can damage relationships and hurt a student's chances of being recruited.
Neglecting Academics: While athletic ability is important, some students and families prioritize sports over academic performance, which can negatively impact their eligibility and scholarship opportunities.
Failing to Market Themselves: Student-athletes need to take an active role in promoting themselves to college coaches through highlight videos, updated transcripts, and proactive outreach. Relying solely on coaches to discover them can be a mistake.
Ignoring Compliance Rules: Not understanding and following NCAA rules regarding recruiting, amateurism, and eligibility can lead to serious consequences for both the student-athlete and the college program.
Overlooking Coaching Changes: Failing to consider the potential impact of coaching changes at a particular school can result in a student-athlete committing to a program that may no longer be a good fit.
Rushing the Decision: Feeling pressured to make a commitment before thoroughly evaluating all options can lead to regrets and potential transfers down the line.
The college recruiting process can be complex, and families who are well-informed, patient, and proactive tend to have a smoother experience and make decisions that align with the student-athlete's best interests.
