College Recruiting 101

Facts Less than 7% of high school football players continue playing in college 2% of HS athletes receive athletic scholarship money towards college 33% of all college players transfer in their careers

More of an art than a science Each year is different Based on needs of the team/school Are you a good fit for each other? (depth, travel, major)

Typical Recruiting Visit Specifically asks about a certain player (tells me what position needs they have) Watch film on the spot (most have already watched) Same Questions What are his grades/transcripts? How is his work ethic and character? Can I take a look at him? (if rules allow – the eye ball test)

Coach-to-Player Recruiting Social media and texting Keep your coach in the loop Limited on contact during certain times (contact them first)

College Levels NCAA NAIA Community Colleges FBS (Div. I) FCS (Div. IAA) Div. II Div. III NAIA Community Colleges

NCAA – FBS, FCS Highest level of college football – the most elite athletes in that position Rosters will speak volumes (sizes, recruiting areas, etc.) Usually begin junior year (sometimes earlier – could be changing) Can offer a full scholarship which covers most if not all costs for school Academics – minimum 2.3 Core GPA (16 classes – locks in senior year) Walk-on

Division II Next best level of football – size, speed, weight, etc. Less scholarships available to offer Take one and break it up into three partial scholarships Make up the rest with financial aid and/or loans Academic rules very similar to Div. I’s

Division III Most are private schools Can only provide money to students based on academics Provide a financial aid package with academic scholarships, financial aid, and loans Different rules regarding practices, meetings, etc. Usually much more strict on academic requirements

NAIA Separate governing body from the NCAA Compared to NCAA Div. II Less strict on academic requirements Break up scholarships just like Div. II

Community (Junior) Colleges Most go due to academics Much cheaper route to take Surrounded by great JCs – get players out Huge positive – colleges will only look at your recent body of work Can be easier to transfer into your dream school Practice film counts – great competition Academic Qualifiers – ability to transfer in less than 2 years

What can you do? - Athletically Work to be the best player on your team in every aspect (grades, weights, leadership, etc.) Perform tremendously on Friday nights Research schools that match your size, ability, academics, majors, location, costs Send film and contact schools (bye week routine) Present yourself in a professional manner – sell yourself Visit schools of interest (attend camps)

What can you do - Academically NCAA Eligibility Center (Clearinghouse) – before start of junior year Take the SAT and ACT (research schools’ preferences) Complete the A – G requirements Take care of business in the classroom – 3.0 GPA or higher (16 core classes)