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Maximizing Recruiting with Academic Select Colleges

Ivy League and other select, non-athletic scholarship awarding institutions can, in many cases, offer significant assistance in Admissions and Financial Aid. Embracing this concept can lead to strong support for prospective student-athletes.

Competition in College Admissions is fierce. Those families who understand the potential impact the athletics component can make in “college select” admissions will position themselves best. Below are 4 Tips to Maximize Recruiting with Academic Select Colleges.

College Coach Timelines

Academic select college coaches embrace a much different recruiting timeline compared to most college coaches nationwide. Many college coaches are positioned to make verbal offers to high school prospects that are based purely on athletic ability. On the other hand, coaches from academically select colleges utilize an extended timeline when committing to candidates.

These coaches are recruiting true student-athletes and work the admissions side first. They will require academic transcripts, standardized test results, and a copy of the high school profile to submit an “academic pre-read” to the admissions office.

Early academic evaluations are an effective means of determining the potential admissibility of a candidate. Typically, coaches work with an athletic department “Admissions Liaison” that can assist them in requesting early application evaluations for prospective student-athletes.

If the admissions pre-read comes back favorable, in most cases, this is a positive sign that the recruiting process will continue. The admissions pre-read is a powerful recruiting tool that provides recruits with a good indication about their chances in admissions.

Build a Strong Case

Today’s college recruiting landscape continues to grow in numbers, quality, and competitiveness. Like any talented athlete, a dedicated prospect should work diligently to separate him/herself from the rest of the pack.

There are 3 critical areas that make-up the prospect entity: Academic strength, athletic prowess, and core integrity. Every prospect should bundle these qualities into a complete profile that presents them in the best light. Your portfolio needs to be unique, impactful, and eye-catching.

Athletic Evaluations

Equally important, college coaches want to evaluate raw athletic talent that will strengthen the program. There are several ways prospects can assist college coaches with sport evaluations. Furthermore, recruiting candidates must embrace a proactive effort when helping coaches evaluate your athleticism.

Highlight and game video should be clean and offer crisp, accurate, and concrete skill.

Attend ID camps and showcases and communicate precise event details with the college coaches.

College prospect camps are ideal if you have narrowed down group of “A list” colleges.

You not only can make an unofficial visit, but you will receive an on-site evaluation from the coaches representing one of your top schools.

Get Personal

College recruiting is indeed a process, and most evaluations are objective. Make every effort to offer the college coaches with a glimpse into your distinct core. Personal integrity and inherent leadership qualities you bring to the table can be game changers.

Schedule a phone or Zoom meeting with the college coaches. Give the coaches a chance to know you better and share your path to success. Finally, plan a road trip and schedule a face-to-face meeting with the coaches.

Present yourself to the college coaches in an organized and well-balanced manner, and you will be well on your way to maximize recruiting with academic select colleges. Add a unique touch that helps engage college coaches on a personal level, and you will give yourself the best opportunity to maximize your college recruiting effort.

Tom Kovic is a former Division I college coach and the Founder/Principal Advisor at Victory Collegiate Consulting, where he provides individual advisement for families navigating the college recruiting process. For further information, visit https://victoryrecruiting.com.

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