1. The College Athletics Dream “Overview”

2. Goals Introduce Basic Information about College Athletics. Provide an understanding of the importance of academics, character, and leadership in the process.

3. Why play in College To continue playing sports. To earn financial aid for college. To open doors to more colleges. To continue your growth as a person.

4. Your Opportunities AthleticsAcademics Character “Your” Opportunity Interests

5. Academics Set a schedule that allows you to maximize your abilities and educational experience. Take courses that match the collegiate opportunity for which you are hoping to attain. Consider weighted courses if you can commit to the increased workload. Choose a Study Hall in season if necessary.

6. Character/Leadership 2 Recommendations: Lead your team and within athletics at VCHS. Serve within your school and community. 2 Questions: What will coaches/teachers say on your reference forms? What is your “fingerprint”?

7. Athletic Development Healthy Living: 8-10 hours of sleep Diet, exercise, church/community involvement Periods of “Seasonal” Rest Strength and Conditioning Club Sports? Playing Multiple Sports?

8. Understanding the System NCAA Division 1 NCAA Division 1 Varied Academics Elite Athletics Athletic Scholarship Competition Private and State Colleges Varied Academics Elite Athletics Athletic Scholarship Competition Private and State Colleges NCAA Division 2 NCAA Division 2 Moderate Academics Strong Athletics Mixed Scholarship Opportunities Mostly State Colleges Moderate Academics Strong Athletics Mixed Scholarship Opportunities Mostly State Colleges NCAA Division 3 NCAA Division 3 Strong Academics Open Athletics Financial Aid through Leadership/Academic Grants Mostly Private Colleges Strong Academics Open Athletics Financial Aid through Leadership/Academic Grants Mostly Private Colleges NAIA

9. Don’t Wait To Be Recruited Research: Naviance College Websites College Fairs Visit Campuses College Visits to VCHS: Attend Info Sessions Create a Strategy: Develop guidelines that will help you navigate your unique experience.

10. Most Frequent Questions What are the NCAA rules? Should I use a recruiting agency? Should I specialize in 1 sport? What would be a good fit for me? Can I play college sports? DI? What if I don’t play much on my team? Where are the most opportunities? What is the time commitment?

11. Useful Resources Websites: NCAA: www.eligibilitycenter.orgwww.eligibilitycenter.org NAIA: www.naia.orgwww.naia.org Naviance Family Connection Meeting with Coaches and Athletic Department. Meeting with Mr. Ellefsen or Counselor Summer “Monday Night Tutorials”

12. Get Started Today!