It is a marathon, not a sprint. Just as there are different stages when running a race, there are different phases in the college recruiting process. Therefore, it’s important to understand each step of recruiting to navigate it successfully. Each phase has checkpoints or tasks you must complete before reaching the finish line; which, in this case, means becoming a college-bound student-athlete. The goal is to find the school that will provide you with the best college experience academically, athletically, and personally.
Whenever we enter a new stage in life, there is so much excitement that we may sprint out of the gate. We’re anxious for how the journey will change us for the better and we’re excited to get to the destination as fast as we can. In the college recruiting process, that seemingly positive urgency could actually hurt your situation.
When you decide to run a marathon, you have to prepare and train for the race. It’s not a spur of the moment decision. The recruiting process is similar. You don’t wake up one morning and say, “I think I want to be a college athlete.” For most, that dream is something they work towards for a long time. You need to prepare for the recruiting process, invest the time, and commit to the work.
Creating a recruiting game plan
You need to develop a plan on how you will attack the process. What are the things you need to know before you start? What are the things you need to do? Once you have created your plan, you need to schedule time dedicated to your college search and recruiting process. I recommend blocking off 30-60 minutes a week.
Start early (3-6 months prior to first contact date) in order to educate yourself, research schools, and contact coaches. As you learn how the process works behind the scenes, you can form a game plan. Promote your academic and athletic achievements to successfully attract coaches and schools you are interested in. The college search is a journey that is full of adventure; I advise you to explore all options. Keep an open mind. Do your homework and seek out the appropriate help to find the answers you need. It’s your future, and you’re worth it.
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