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Experiencing the world of college recruiting can feel daunting, as it’s like interpreting a secret language, especially when your child is just entering their high school journey. Due to a lack of awareness, many feel scared and avoid being a part of the recruiting method, adding to the tension of their parents, who again fear that their pushing might lead to negative consequences.
But, it’s not necessary that the same happens with you too. Allow, this blog is to unveil the basics you need to understand and motivate your child to follow the same, so they can pass the College Recruiting 101 procedure confidently with flying colours.
Laying The Foundation Of Academics
You can’t expect your child to get admission in colleges, athletics, or anything else. A strong GPA, coursework, and perfect test scores automatically unlock educational opportunities. Therefore, sit with your child and encourage them to focus on their studies since the first day of high school. In this way, not only will their college applications be quickly shortlisted, but have the necessary skills to gain success in the future. It can become a win-win situation, especially if your child wants to get enrolled in their desired high school.
The All-Rounder Student-Athlete
Keep in mind that colleges are not just searching for athletes, but all-rounders, who can make their campus proud as well. Motivate your child to pursue their interests on and beyond the field and make an athletic resume. According to Plus 31 Sports.com, an athletic resume acts as a summary of your child’s achievements, skills, and potential that they bring to the table as an athlete. They must highlight their specific accomplishments, like awards, records, and notable performances. Furthermore, it can also include their participation in clubs, volunteering, and mastery of the arts. These experiences play a crucial role in demonstrating character, time management skills, and an interest in something beyond their favourite sport.
Start The Conversation
Motivate your child to think about their aspirations regarding college much earlier, instead of relying on junior and senior years. Ask them what they long to become in both academic and athletic senses. However, don’t pressurize them, keep the communication open, and let them know you have no issues if they continue what they dream of pursuing and the type of college environment they wish to be a part of. Therefore, start the conversation to know their inner desires.
Understand The Different Divisions
Things work out a little differently for college athletics as they function across various divisions, such as NCAA Divisions I, II, and III; NAIA; and NJCAA. Each of them emerges with its own set of academic and athletic eligibility requirements, rules of recruitment, and opportunities for grabbing good opportunities. You must become familiar with these different paths to learn where your child could fit. NCAA Division I and II schools usually offer athletic scholarships, while Division III and NAIA schools may offer merit-based aid and lay great stress on the student-athlete experience.
Communicate Proactively
Rather than waiting for college coaches to come hunting for your child, train your child to communicate proactively in the following ways:
Create Highlight Videos
Record highlight short videos. Asking them to portray their athletic abilities and strengths in 3-5 minutes.
Identify Target Schools
Encourage them to search the internet and pen down the colleges that align with their academic and athletic goals. They will themselves work harder to get admission there.
Contact Coaches
Teach your child to contact coaches. Compose and send introductory emails stating that they are quite interested, attach their athletic resume, while highlighting their video link. In this way, the coaches will be compelled to click and view the video. And, don’t forget to tailor these emails and express genuine interest in the particular program.
Navigate the NCAA Eligibility Center (for NCAA Divisions I and II)
If your child wishes to compete in NCAA Division I or II, then you will need to take them to register with the NCAA Eligibility Center. This procedure involves submitting academic transcripts and verifying age status. Kindly look at the requirements and deadlines before the due date.
Parent’s Role
As a parent, you need to support and provide guidance. How? In the following style:
- Be your child’s biggest support.
- Keep encouraging and guiding them throughout the procedure.
- Assist them in staying organized and meeting deadlines.
- Prepare them for communicating with coaches.
- Avoid putting unnecessary pressure on them.
Be Clear About Finances
College is an investment, and the more well-reputed an institution is, the higher its costs. Hence, be clear about finances with your child, which includes tuition, fees, room and board, and potential athletic or academic scholarships. Start having open conversations about finances early on to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Additionally, managing costs outside of tuition—like sports gear, travel to tournaments, and training camps—is just as important. For practical tips, check out our guide on Wrestling on a Budget: How Parents Can Save Big on Gear and Travel.
Conclusion
Try your best to communicate with your child so everyone remains on the same page. Furthermore, you can even check out Wrestler Mom for relevant guidance.
