Creating a List of Target Schools During the College Sports Recruiting Process
Building a list of target schools is a crucial step in the college sports recruiting process. This list will guide your efforts, helping you focus on the programs that best match your athletic and academic goals. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to create an effective list of target schools.
1. Self-Assessment: Understanding Your Profile
Athletic Evaluation:
- Performance and Potential: Assess your current level of performance and potential for improvement. Take into account feedback from your coaches and trainers.
- Statistics and Highlights: Gather your statistics, highlight videos, and any notable achievements in your sport.
Academic Evaluation:
- GPA and Test Scores: Review your GPA, SAT/ACT scores, and other academic credentials.
- Course Rigor: Consider the difficulty of your coursework and any advanced or honors classes you’ve taken.
Personal Preferences:
- Location: Decide if you have a preference for a specific geographic area (e.g., close to home, a particular climate).
- Campus Size and Culture: Think about whether you prefer a large university or a smaller college, and the type of campus culture you’re looking for.
2. Researching Potential Schools
Athletic Programs:
- Level of Competition: Determine which division levels (Division I, II, III, NAIA, Junior College) align with your athletic abilities and goals.
- Program Strength: Research the performance history, coaching staff, and overall reputation of the athletic programs.
Academic Programs:
- Majors and Minors: Identify schools that offer strong programs in your intended major or field of interest.
- Academic Support: Look for institutions that provide academic support services for student-athletes, such as tutoring and advising.
Campus Life:
- Student Organizations: Explore the extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations available.
- Facilities and Resources: Consider the quality of dorms, dining halls, libraries, and other campus facilities.
3. Categorizing Schools: Reach, Match, and Safety
Reach Schools:
- Higher Aspirations: These are schools where your athletic and academic qualifications are slightly below the average accepted student-athlete.
- High Level of Competition: Typically, these schools have highly competitive athletic programs and rigorous academic standards.
Match Schools:
- Good Fit: Your qualifications closely align with the average student-athlete at these schools.
- Balanced Options: These programs offer a balance between your athletic and academic abilities.
Safety Schools:
- Strong Probability: Your qualifications exceed the average student-athlete at these schools, making acceptance likely.
- Backup Plans: These schools serve as reliable options if other choices do not work out.
4. Gathering Information
Official Websites:
- Athletics and Admissions: Use the official websites of the colleges to gather detailed information about the athletic programs and admissions requirements.
- Virtual Tours: Take advantage of virtual tours to get a feel for the campus.
Recruiting Platforms:
- Hudl, NCSA, BeRecruited: These platforms provide valuable insights and connect you with coaches and recruiting information.
- Athlete Profiles: Create and maintain up-to-date profiles on these platforms.
Social Media:
- Coaches and Teams: Follow coaches and athletic programs on social media to stay updated on their activities and announcements.
- Engagement: Engage with posts to show interest and gain visibility.
5. Communicating with Coaches
Initial Contact:
- Personalized Emails: Send personalized emails to coaches, introducing yourself and expressing your interest in their program.
- Highlight Videos and Resumes: Attach your athletic resume and highlight video to showcase your skills and achievements.
Follow-Up:
- Regular Updates: Keep coaches informed of your progress, new stats, and any upcoming competitions.
- Questions and Clarifications: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the program, recruiting process, and scholarship opportunities.
6. Evaluating Fit and Making Adjustments
Campus Visits:
- Official and Unofficial Visits: Visit campuses to get a first-hand experience of the environment and facilities.
- Meetings with Coaches: Arrange to meet with coaches and team members to understand the team culture and coaching style.
Academic Fit:
- Meet with Faculty: If possible, meet with faculty members in your intended major to discuss the academic program.
- Attend Classes: Sit in on classes to get a sense of the academic atmosphere.
Feedback and Refinement:
- Continuous Evaluation: Regularly review and adjust your list based on new information and feedback from coaches.
- Consult with Mentors: Seek advice from high school coaches, guidance counselors, and recruiting advisors to ensure you’re on the right track.
Conclusion
Creating a list of target schools is a dynamic and ongoing process that requires thorough research, honest self-assessment, and proactive communication. By categorizing schools into reach, match, and safety categories, and continuously evaluating your options, you can strategically focus your efforts on the programs that best fit your athletic and academic goals. Remember, the ultimate goal is to find a college where you can thrive both on the field and in the classroom, ensuring a successful and fulfilling college experience.