You should be! When you start the ninth grade, you become a “prospective student athlete”. You become a “recruited prospective student athlete” at a particular college if any coach or representative of a college’s athletics interest approaches you, or family member regarding enrolling and participating in athletics at that college. Please keep in mind the college coaches are tracking young athletes in the high school ranks to assure their college coaching future. College coaches strive to recruit the best and smartest athletes who exhibit the talent and characteristics of exceeding their highest expectations. These coaches love to see athletic and academic talent excel through High School.

Q: Is my G.P.A. important during my High School years?

Yes! You will need a minimum G.P.A. of 2.0 after your 12th grade year. Also, the higher your G.P.A is, the lower your ACT and SAT scores need to be. If your G.P.A. is 2.5 or higher, you’re ACT. Sum of all scores needs to be a minimum of 68. Your SAT score minimum needs to be 820.

However, if your G.P.A. is 2.0 your minimum act score is 86 and your SAT score needs to be 1010.

Q: What does the term “Red shirting” mean? 

You are allowed five years to play four years. A red shirt year is simply one year of the five you practiced with the team but did not participate in competition. Most red shirts occur during the freshman year.

Q: If I receive two or more scholarships, can I take my time deciding?

Maybe. It may be in your best interest to understand that those scholarships are only good when they are presented. Also, be aware that coaches are still recruiting. This means if a better player comes along, the coach can change his mind and offer your scholarship to someone else. This does happen multiple times. Please do not forget Junior College athletes that transfer.

Q: Is a scholarship a four-year ride?

Nope! Not even close. A scholarship is a one (1) year contract between the athlete and the institution. Generally, if you remain in good academic standing and meet the coaching requirements, your scholarship will be renewed nearly 100% of the time.

Q: Why should I try to improve my G.P.A. and test scores if they are just above the minimum?

By improving your test scores and G.P.A. more colleges with higher standards for academic enrollment become available. Also, since most students are happy with being marginal and being qualified, your chances improve in gaining a scholarship. Don’t forget that a good academic record will illustrate to coaches that you possess an outstanding character, which is an important factor when striving to succeed?

Q: Are the academic standards for athletic scholarships the same in Divisions I, II, & III schools?

No they are not! Each division has their own standards. Please talk to a guidance counselor or coach at your High School. This is very important! 

Q: My friends told me I should hire a scouting service, is this true?

No! First off, the term “hire” means a payment! Second, the NCAA does not sanction or endorse any scouting programs. Please note the word “ANY”. See your coach, guidance counselor or check with the NCAA.