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Written By: The College Recruiting Playbook
Sophomore May. Navigating the Path to College Sports: A Sophomore Athlete’s Guide
Congratulations! You have either completed your sophomore year of high school or you soon will – and this all leads up to an important year…now you are on your way to your junior year. This is an exciting time for you, as you continue to grow academically and athletically. As you enter the month of May, there are tasks that you should focus on to prepare for the next phase of your high school career. In this blog post, we will discuss the top four things that you should focus on as you start your junior year as a high school student-athlete.
Preparation for June 15
It’s essential to keep track of NCAA guidelines, including the dates coaches are allowed to communicate with recruits. June 15 is an important date, as it marks the beginning of the recruiting period for Division 1 coaches. It’s the perfect time to make sure you have your grades in order and create a list of potential schools you’re interested in. Take the time to research the coaches of these schools and their coaching styles. Get to know what the programs are looking for in a student-athlete so that you can tailor your approach to meet their expectations.
Create a Highlight or Skills Video
A highlight or skills video is an excellent way to showcase your abilities to college coaches. While it can seem challenging to create, it’s essential to understand what the coach is looking for in a video. Does the coach want to see your best plays compiled, or do they want to see a full game? Be mindful of what the coach wants so that you can cater to their needs. It’s helpful to get advice from experts like those at The College Recruiting Playbook, who can guide you on creating a video that will be appealing to the coach.
Post your Summer Schedule
Summer is a busy time for student-athletes, with camps, games, and other events. Coaches want to know where potential recruits are going to be so that they can plan their schedules accordingly. Posting your summer schedule is a two-way street that allows coaches to know where you’ll be and for you to let them know where they can find you. Remember, being proactive and communicating your schedule will give you an edge in the recruiting process.
Be Organized
Organization is the key to success in all areas of life, including athletics. Make sure you’re keeping track of your grades, communicating with coaches, and staying on top of deadlines. Create a centralized location for your athletic and academic materials so that you can easily access them when needed. Have a schedule that includes time for studying, practicing, and relaxing. Being well-organized will take the stress out of the recruiting process and allow you to focus on your goals.
Conclusion:
Your junior year of high school is a critical time for you, student-athlete. By creating a plan to stay organized, preparing for the recruiting process, creating a solid summer schedule, and making a highlight or skills video, you’re setting yourself up for success. The first step towards achieving your goals is creating a plan that will help you get there. Good luck!