If you’re a high school student-athlete considering your college plans, you likely have wondered: What does college athletic recruitment look like? Could I be recruited? Is it too late?
For those who are serious, the process can begin as early as your freshman year. The unspoken truth is that less than 7% of high school athletes go on to play at the collegiate level, and even fewer earn athletic scholarships. That’s just the reality. However, with the right strategy and preparation, you can increase your chances of securing a spot on a college team.
Curious about what it means to be recruited? Let’s dive into the details of what it means to be an athlete in college and the different paths you might take to live out your dreams.
What does the college athletic recruitment process look like?
So, what would it actually look like to be recruited for a college team? It sounds amazing, right?
While each sport has its own recruitment nuances, the basics are largely the same. College coaches and recruiters are looking for strong athletes, but they also want committed students who can handle the demands of a rigorous academic schedule. According to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the recruiting process can start as early as freshman year, with informal scouting and communication from college coaches.
So what does that mean for you?
“Recruitment isn’t just about your stats,” says Denard, a lead counselor at Empowerly and former college admissions recruiting liaison. “It’s about showcasing to interested coaches how you handle pressure, communicate with teammates, and adapt to new strategies. Coaches want well-rounded athletes who bring more to the table than just athletic skill.”
That’s no small order. So let’s get to the nitty gritty: here’s what you need to know and do in order to truly “go the distance.”
Recruitment vs. walk-on: similarities and differences
Not every athlete is recruited, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still play in college. Here’s a quick, simplified breakdown of the major differences.
| Aspect | Recruited Athlete | Walk-On Athlete |
| Scholarships | Often offered based on skill and position (eligible for financial aid based on demonstrated need) | May not receive a scholarship initially, but can earn one (eligible for financial aid based on demonstrated need) |
| Academic Support | Access to tutors, academic advisors | Less structured but still accessible |
| Training | Structured, year-round schedule | Must prove themselves to earn a roster spot |
While recruited athletes often receive more immediate benefits, walk-ons can still earn scholarships and significant playing time if they demonstrate commitment and skill.
Of course, there are other differences between these two roles that aren’t covered here. If you’re curious about what life is like as a student-athlete, try reaching out to current students or alumni who have walked the walk. The reality might be different from what you expected.
For instance, here’s a “day in the life” video of a collegiate runner:
Understanding the college athletic divisions
There are a few main types of college sports organizations that will pop up over and over during this discussion. Let’s define each one.
NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association)
This is the biggest organization, and it’s divided into three divisions:
- Division I (DI): This is the highest and most competitive level. DI schools usually have big athletic programs.
- Division II (DII): DII is still competitive, but it aims for a better balance between sports and academics. A good number of athletes in DII get financial aid.
- Division III (DIII): In DIII, academics are just as important as athletics. These schools focus on giving you a well-rounded college experience.
NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics):
This is another organization with smaller, mostly private schools. The competition is often compared to NCAA DIII.
NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association):
This organization serves athletic teams at two-year colleges. These junior colleges can be a more affordable way to start your college career and develop your skills before moving to a four-year school.
Which division is right for you?
Here are a few ways to start exploring these different pathways.
- Be realistic about your talent: Watch college games and look at team rosters to see where you might fit in.
- Get advice: Ask your coaches or recruiting experts to evaluate your skills.
- Think about what you want: The best fit for you will depend on your athletic abilities, your academic goals, and what kind of college experience you’re looking for.
How do athletic scholarships fit in?
Scholarships can be a game-changer for student-athletes, but they’re not guaranteed. The NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA each have their own rules for athletic scholarships, ranging from full-ride offers to partial scholarships based on academic performance, athletic ability, or both.
As you well know, this financial assistance can be life-changing for students who can’t afford tuition without scholarships and aid. However, scholarships often come with strings attached. Student-athletes are required to maintain academic eligibility, meet training and conditioning expectations, and adhere to team rules. Falling below a certain GPA or missing practice could jeopardize both your scholarship and your spot on the team.
Be sure you carefully read and understand any contracts or agreements you sign so you know what your responsibilities will be.
The typical college athletic recruitment timeline
Everyone talks about “getting the call,” but recruitment doesn’t happen overnight. In addition to years of dedication to your sport and physical conditioning, there’s plenty of other work that happens off the field.
While there are always exceptions to the typical path, it’s helpful to know the broad strokes. Here’s a general timeline to follow:
Freshman Year:
- Assess your skill level (honestly) and identify potential target college programs.
- Build relationships with coaches and mentors who can vouch for you later.
Sophomore Year:
- Attend showcase events and perform at your best to start compiling game footage.
- Research NCAA eligibility requirements and maintain a strong GPA.
Junior Year:
- Start contacting college coaches directly (always be respectful).
- Attend scouting camps, training camps, and submit highlight reels where appropriate.
Senior Year:
- Sign a National Letter of Intent (NLI) if offered a scholarship.
- Continue communicating with coaches to solidify your position.
- Remember why you’re here: to enjoy the game!
Tips for top athletes who want to be recruited:
1. Stay Organized:
Keep a spreadsheet of schools you’re interested in, including coach contact info and important deadlines. This will help you in all areas of life when it comes to college, not just athletics.
2. Build Your Highlight Reel:
Showcase your best moments, but also include footage that demonstrates your sportsmanship and teamwork. Try to have decent camera angles and resolution to best illustrate your skills. When the time comes, your portfolio matters a good deal.
3. Reach Out to Coaches:
Send personalized emails with your stats, video links, and academic achievements. While easier said than done, networking is a critical part of your career, both on and off the field. Handling yourself professionally in these settings is great practice.
4. Stay Academically Eligible:
Your grades matter just as much as your performance on the field. Particularly for academically rigorous institutions, your transcript will be examined. That extends to behavior and disciplinary actions, too — so don’t let your senior prank get out of hand.
5. Be Realistic, and Stay Positive:
Not every athlete will play D1, and that’s okay. Consider D2, D3, and junior college programs as well if you are deeply committed to following this path. You never know where the journey will take you next.
Can a coach get me accepted to a top school despite my grades?
While coaches can advocate for athletes, they don’t have unlimited influence.
“A coach can flag a student-athlete’s application for consideration,” explains Denard, who personally spent time reading applications, “but if your academic profile is significantly below the standard for that institution, there’s only so much they can do.”
Staying academically competitive is crucial for securing both admission and athletic scholarships.
Other pathways to play in college
If the recruitment process doesn’t pan out, there are still ways to continue your athletic career in college:
- Independent Leagues: Some sports have semi-professional leagues for college students.
- Club Teams: Less competitive than varsity sports, but still a great way to stay active and build connections.
- Intramurals: Ideal for those who want to stay in shape and enjoy the camaraderie without the full commitment.
How Empowerly can help boost your resume
Empowerly’s expert counselors provide tailored support for student-athletes, from resume-building to crafting compelling personal statements. Whether it’s optimizing your athletic resume, preparing for interviews, or identifying scholarship opportunities, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Are you ready to elevate your athletic recruitment game? Book a consultation with Empowerly today and get personalized advice to maximize your chances of playing at the collegiate level.
