prep, recruit, recruiting, recruiter, sports, scholarships, collegiate, college, athletics, scout, high school, prospects, csa. prepstar, magazine, Larry Kanne, Southern California Area Scout
FOOTBALL
All-Access
Scores
Gametracker
Fantasy
News
Rankings
DELL Rivalry Of The Week
Schedules
Statistics
Standings
I-AA, D-II, D-III Home
MEN'S BASKETBALL
WOMEN'S BASKETBALL
FIELD HOCKEY
CROSS-COUNTRY
MEN'S SOCCER
WOMEN'S SOCCER
WOMEN'S VOLLEYBALL
MEN'S WATER POLO
Baseball
Bowling
Equestrian
Fencing
Golf M | W
Gymnastics M | W
Hockey M | W
Lacrosse M | W
Rifle
Rowing
Rugby
Skiing
Softball
Squash
Swimming & Diving
Tennis M | W
Track and Field
Ultimate
Volleyball M | W
Water Polo M | W
Wrestling
CSTV On-Air Schedule
Listen to CSTV
Bookmark This Site
Free RSS Feed
Recruiting
Recruit Me!
Free Newsletter
Feedback
Get CSTV!
Affiliates
Sales
CSTV Partners
Auburn
Georgia
Illinois
Iowa
Kansas
Louisville
Miami (FL)
Michigan
Michigan State
Navy
North Carolina
Northwestern
Notre Dame
Ohio State
Ole Miss
Penn State
San Diego State
Stanford
Tennessee
Texas Tech
UCLA
USC
Utah
Washington
Washington State
West Virginia
ACC
Big Ten
Big 12
C-USA
MWC
Pac-10
More Partners
Katrina's aftermath
NCAA Statement on Student-Athletes Affected by Hurricane Katrina (9/16)
NACDA still hopes to have 2006 convention in New Orleans (9/9)
NCAA statement on hurricane relief (9/6)
NCAA giving affected institutions and conferences latitude to make rules decisions (9/1)
Custom Home Pages
Administration & Compliance
Sports Information & Marketing
Coaches
Student-Athletes & Parents
University Presidents
For up-to-date coverage, statistics and rankings
Visit our museum Association News Convention registration opens September 14
Registration for the 2006 NCAA Convention in Indianapolis begins September 14. Registration materials and Appointment of Delegate forms will be accepted online.
Nominations accepted for Fall Top VIII awards
2005 NCAA Woman of Year Finalists Announced
More Association News
Division I
AEC Cabinet discusses transfers, reviews legislation
APR adjustments for quarter schools released
Division II
Administrator chosen for Management Council
Division III
Financial aid reporting deadline nears
Take a short survey about our Web site. Academics & Athletes
SEC tops in I-A athletics success survey
WBCA honors teams for academic achievement
NCAA First Team Program keeps prep basketball students focused on current and future education endeavors
Duke, Northwestern teams earn football academic honors
Academic Progress Rates (APR) About the NCAA The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is a voluntary organization through which the nation's colleges and universities govern their athletics programs. It comprises more than 1,250 institutions, conferences, organizations and individuals committed to the best interests, education and athletics participation of student-athletes. This section of the Web site contains more details about the Association, its goals and members, and corporate partnerships that help support programs for student-athletes.
The AssociationOverview
Our Mission
History of the NCAA
NCAA Centennial Celebration
President’s Page
Strategic Planning Process
Contacting the NCAA
More Information
Membership
Composition of the Membership
The Differences Between Divisions I, II and III
Links to School, Conference and Affiliated Member Web Sites
Lists of NCAA Sports Sorted by School
More Information
Corporate Relationships
Leadership Advisory Board
Corporate Champions and Corporate Partners
Licensing Information
More Information
The NCAA Brand
Registered Trademarks
Logo Downloads (Password Required)
More Information
The more than 1,250 members of the NCAA are divided into five categories: active colleges and universities, provisional colleges and universities, conferences, affiliated organizations, and corresponding members. The 1,024 active member schools self-determine which of three divisions they will be classified in and must annually meet membership criteria for that division. The active member institutions and voting conferences are the ultimate voice in all Association decisions. This page contains links to more information about the membership, its divisions and NCAA finances.
The Divisions
The Differences Between Divisions I, II and III
History of Multidivision Classification
(104k)
Membership Requirements and Waivers
Division I
Division II
Division III
Membership Applications
Membership Overview
Who Makes Up the NCAA's Membership?
Composition of the Membership
Committee Structure
Links to School, Conference and Affiliated Member Web Sites
Lists of NCAA Sports Sorted by School
List of NCAA Schools Sorted The NCAA works with some of America's top corporations to help promote the value of athletics in education. The companies provide funding and expertise to support youth programs, fan interactive experiences and scholarship programs for student-athletes, in addition to promoting the excitement of the NCAA's 88 championships. The page contains links to additional information about the programs through which these companies benefit college athletics.
Leadership Advisory Board
Introduction
Programs
Directors
Corporate Alliances
Corporate Champion/Partner Program
Corporate Champions and Corporate Partners
Category Exclusivity
Program Elements
Licensing
Official Licensee List
Royalty Rates
Frequently Asked Questions
more
Merchandising
Official Championships Suppliers
Merchandising Policies Learning. Balance. Spirit. Community. Fair play. Character.
These are the attributes that the NCAA promotes through its branding initiative. An important part of the NCAA brand is a consistent image that supports these attributes. This page contains links to information about trademarks and icons that reflect and protect the NCAA brand.
Trademarks and Logos
Registered Trademarks
Logo Downloads (Password Required)
NCAA Signage Order Form
(669k)
Division II Signage Order Form
(158k)
Public Service Announcements
2005 Campaign Summary (Flash Presentation)
Order PSA Videotapes
This section provides information on how student-athletes can comply with NCAA bylaws in order to compete in intercollegiate athletics. It includes information on what high-school students need to do to be eligible to compete their first year in college, as well as guidelines that coaches and prospects must follow during the recruiting process. Information is also included on conduct issues that have eligibility ramifications, such as gambling and the use of sports agents.
Useful Resouces Eligibility & Recruiting
Eligibility
Recruiting
International Student-Athletes
Conduct
Sportsmanship
Sports Wagering
Agents & Amateurism
Drug Testing
The NCAA administers a variety of internship, scholarship and leadership-development programs to enhance the educational opportunities that student-athletes receive on campus. In addition, the NCAA conducts research into the academic preparation and performance of student-athletes, among many other topics. This page contains links to information about the NCAA's educational programming and research efforts.
Academics & InitiativesScholarships & Internships
School-Administered Athletics Scholarships
Div. I Degree Completion Award Program
Div. II Degree Completion Award Program
NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship Program
Walter Byers Postgraduate Scholarship Program
The Freedom Forum-NCAA Sports-Journalism Scholarship Program
NCAA Internship Program
More Scholarship & Internship Information
Programs & Events
Fellows Leadership Development Program
Conference Intern Seminar
National Student-Athlete Day
Leadership Conferences
Health and Safety Program
Academic Performance & Graduation
Academic Progress Rates (APR)
Academic Support Services and Resources
Graduation Rates
Research
NCAA Research Reports
NCAA Research Staff
Probability of Competing Beyond High School
Participation Rates
(77.2 MB)
Participation Rates Related to the Decline in Sponsorship of Olympic Sports
(718k)
Sports Wagering Athletes face even more personal and physical hazards than the average college student. Below are links to resources and programs that the NCAA conducts to help student-athletes stay healthy and make the proper choices about nutrition and drugs.
Student-Athlete WelfareHealth & Nutrition
Health & Safety
Nutrition & Performance
Drug-Testing Program
Injury Surveillance System
Programs
Student-Athlete Insurance Program
CHAMPS / Life Skills Program The NCAA is committed to developing leadership abilities in student-athletes and enhancing opportunities for ethnic minorities and women. On this page you will find links to more information about programs designed to enhance diversity in intercollegiate athletics and develop tomorrow's leaders.
Programmatic Efforts Diversity Programs
Gender Equity/Title IX
Leadership Institute for Ethnic Minority Females
Leadership Institute for Ethnic Minority Males
Fellows Leadership Development Program
NCAA Men's Coaches Academy
NCAA Women Coaches Academy
Division II Strategic Alliance Matching Grant Enhancement Program
Division III Strategic Alliance Matching Grant Enhancement Program
Division III Initiative Grants
Diversity Training Workshops
Women's Minority Coaches Matching Grant Program
Leadership
Student-Athlete Advisory Committees
Leadership Advisory Board
Leadership Conferences for Student-Athletes
National Student-Athlete Day
CHAMPS/Life Skills Program
Conference Intern Seminar
NCAA Hall of Champions
Related Diversity Information
Contact the NCAA Office for Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity Training Workshops
BCA Hiring Report Card for Division I-A and I-AA Football Head Coaching Positions
(1.3 Mb)
Race and Gender Demographics of NCAA Member Institutions' Athletic Personnel
(36 Mb)
NCAA Student-Athlete Ethnicity Report
(30.2 MB)
Related Gender Equity Information
Gender Equity Contact
Gender Equity Resources
NCAA/EADA Financial Reporting System
NCAA Gender Equity Report SportsThe NCAA administers 88 championships in 23 sports for its member institutions. More than 40,600 men and women student-athletes annually compete in these events for national titles.
Related Information Statistics
Polls (Rankings)
Emerging Sports
Sports Playing Rules
Records Books
Participation Rates Report
Student-Athlete Eligibility
Forms and Deadlines
Championship News Releases
Championships Promotions Manual
Championships Schedules & Tickets
Lists of NCAA Sports Sorted by School
For up-to-date coverage, statistics and rankings
Helpful LinksTake a short survey about our Web site.
School, Conference and Affiliated Member Web Sites
How many championships has your school won?
NCAA Hall of Champions
School Nicknames
Coaches and Mascots
NCAA Photos
Fall SportsCross Country (W)
Cross Country (M)
Field Hockey (W)
Football (M)
Soccer (W)
Soccer (M)
Volleyball (W)
Water Polo (M)
Winter SportsBasketball (W)
Basketball (M)
Bowling (W)
Fencing (M & W)
Gymnastics (W)
Gymnastics (M)
Ice Hockey (W)
Ice Hockey (M)
Rifle (M & W)
Skiing (M & W)
Swimming & Diving (W)
Swimming & Diving (M)
Indoor Track & Field (W)
Indoor Track & Field (M)
Wrestling (M)
Spring SportsBaseball (M)
Golf (W)
Golf (M)
Lacrosse (W)
Lacrosse (M)
Rowing (W)
Softball (W)
Tennis (W)
Tennis (M)
Outdoor Track & Field (W)
Outdoor Track & Field (M)
Volleyball (M)
Water Polo (W)
Division II
UNF's Rhodes Goes International
UNF's head coach is currently leading the Greek National Team. (UNF) Dusty Rhodes is currently the head coach for the Greek National Team, but has also held assistant coaching positions for Team USA and the Australian National Team. Rhodes, who led the Ospreys to the Division II national championship game in June, has helped build the Greek National Team from the ground up in a country where baseball is not a well-known sport.
Continue
Division I
Texas Sweeps Florida for CWS Title
Texas players pile up after beating Florida 6-2 in Game 2 of the best-of-three championship series. (AP) The Texas Longhorns won the 2005 College World Series on June 26, as the Longhorns defeated Florida 6-2 in Game 2 of the best-of-three championship series to win the national title at Rosenblatt Stadium in Omaha, Nebraska. On June 25, Texas took the lead in the championship series, defeating Florida 4-2 in Game 1. Check out the Scoreboard for complete stats, play-by-play and recaps for all the games from the regionals to the CWS.
Related
• Brackets: 64-Team | CWS
• Multimedia: Live Audio | Press Room | Photo Gallery
• Statistical Leaders | CWS Notes - 6/24
• CWS All-Tournament Team Announced
• About the CWS | Q&A: Committee Chair Charlie Carr
Division II
Mocs Win All-Florida Final
Daniel Albritton closed out the final with three scoreless innings. (Fla. Southern) Florida Southern had to win two in a row against Central Missouri just to get the final, then beat North Florida 12-9 for the championship. North Florida scored eight runs in the first two innings, but the Mocs battled back as their pitchers settled down to close it out. Check out all the action from the regionals to the final on our Scoreboard.
Related
• Championship Bracket
• TV Coverage
• Team Previews
• Regional Results
Division III
Warhawks Claim Title
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater pitcher Greg Reinhard. In the Division III championship game, Wisconsin-Whitewater defeated Cortland State 11-4 to claim the title. Wisconsin-Whitewater went udefeated in the tournament while Cortland State continued to win after falling to the losers bracket in the first round. Relive all the action on our Scoreboard.
Related
• Championship Bracket
• Chapman Relies on Pitching
BASEBALL INFO:
Division I
Championship Dates, Sites
Host Site
Order CWS Highlight Videos
Participating Schools
YES Clinic Information
Archive
Division II
Host Web Site
Championship Dates, Sites
Participating Schools
Archive
Division III
Championship Dates, Sites
2004 Automatic Qualifiers
Participating Schools
Archive
All Divisions
Records Book
NCAA Certified Bats
Division I
Two Coaches Follow Parallel Paths
Jim Calhoun (left) and Jim Boeheim (right) will both be enshrined in the Hall of Fame on Sept. 9. (AP) Connecticut coach Jim Calhoun and Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim will end up in the Basketball Hall of Fame on the very same day. Their roots run deep and their coaching careers have mirrored each other's for decades. Both recorded their 700th win within a week of each other last season and are tied for sixth on the active career victory list with 703 wins. Boeheim won his first NCAA title in 2003 and Calhoun won his second the following year.
Continue
Division I
North Carolina Wins Title
North Carolina's Rashad McCants and teammates hoist the trophy on April 4. (AP) The North Carolina Tar Heels are the 2005 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Champions. Sean May had 26 points and the Tar Heels didn't allow a basket over the final, excruciating two-and-a-half minutes as they defeated Illinois, 75-70, on April 4. The win gave head coach Roy Williams, a 17-year coaching veteran, his first national championship. Get shot charts, play-by-play, stats and more on our Scoreboard.
Related
• Order the 2005 Final Four Highlight Video
• Championship Bracket | Official (.pdf)
• Tournament Central | Team Rosters
• Regions: Chicago | Albuquerque | Syracuse | Austin
• Thank You Corporate Champions and Partners
Division II
Virginia Union Wins Third Title
Virginia Union's Duan Crockett, center, drives for a basket in the semis. (AP) Bryant fought hard but came up short against Virginia Union in the Division II Men's Basketball Championship final. The Panthers defense smothered Bryant, keeping the Bulldog shooters on the perimeter and contesting every shot in the 63-58 win. Check out the Scoreboard for scores and recaps from the entire tournament and Video Highlights from the final.
Related
• Championship Bracket
Division III
Pointers Take Second Straight Title
UWSP made history with the largest margin of victory in a national championship game. (UWSP) After a big second half, Wisconsin-Stevens Point claimed the school's second straight Division III Men's Basketball Championship. UWSP is the third school in Division III history to win back-to-back titles. Earlier, the Knights of Calvin College defeated the Spartans of York College (Pa.), 98-84, in the consolation game. Get game scores, recaps and more from the tournament on our Scoreboard.
Related
• Championship Bracket
• Selection Announcement
The college application process and the recruiting process can be intimidating. Here is some advice, from collegiate athletes, to make this process as easy as possible.
Prior to your junior year in high school (11th grade) there is little you can do in the college process. Train and compete successfully, do well in school, and start noticing which academic areas interest you. Make sure you are taking tough courses- colleges love students who challenge themselves. As athletes ourselves, we know that each sport is an enormous commitment. But, colleges want to see that you have made a difference in, and off the field. Try to find an school club/organization that interests you. Maybe you can volunteer with a local community service organization. Whatever you decide to do, colleges will appreciate it.
Junior year marks the beginning of the college process. Division I college coaches can contact you via mail or email beginning September 1st of your junior year. However, they cannot begin calling you or meeting with you until July 1 after completion of your junior year. Division II coaches may also contact you via mail or email beginning September 1st of your junior year. Yet, unlike Division 1 coaches, they may not begin calling you or meeting with you until June 15th before your senior year. Division III coaches cannot meet with you until the conclusion of your junior year.
This is also an important year academically - especially if you are applying for early admission. Take your classes seriously and take challenging courses.
Establish a relationship with your college guidance counselor and your academic advisor to discuss the application process. Think about where "geographically" you'd like to attend, and start thinking about in which division you'd like to compete. Make a list of 5-15 colleges that interest you, and have your parents, your coaches, and your college counselor make a similar list of schools they find appropriate for your academic and athletic abilities.
With your list of prospective schools, look through their team and conference results to see where you'd fit in. Even if you're not quite talented enough yet, know that you have more than a year to improve. Don't be afraid of contacting coaches to get information about their programs yourself- before they contact you. Emailing a coach is a great way of both learning about and showing interest in a particular program.
Take the PSAT in the fall to get some practice for the SAT and perhaps win a national merit scholarship. Analyze your PSAT results carefully. If you do poorly, perhaps taking an SAT class would be wise. If you did well, taking the SAT your junior year could be a great idea. Remember, colleges look at your best combined SAT score (best verbal + best math)- so taking the SAT multiple times can only help! Taking the SAT your junior year is also great practice and preparation for taking it your senior year.
Many schools require up to three SAT II scores. The spring of your junior year would be a wise time to take these. Because most schools require the SAT II Writing and a math of some sort, take each of these. You can take up to three SAT II's at once and colleges only receive those scores that you submit.
Register with the NCAA Initial Eligibility Clearinghouse and check out the academic requirements for participating in college sports. Make sure your senior year classes meet the clearinghouse requirements. If it seems that making the minimum academic standard for competing in the NCAA's is going to be difficult, you should consider taking an SAT prep course in the summer.
If you are going to apply early, your spring and summer seasons (before your senior year) may be your last chance to showcase your talent and ability! Make sure you focus on training and remember to update coaches on these results.
The summer after your junior year is also a great chance to take unofficial visits with your family to colleges and universities that interest you. Try to plan these trips after July 1st or June 15th, depending on the school's division, so that you may meet with the coaching staff. Keep a journal with notes about what you like or dislike about each college.
Besides training the summer prior to your senior year, getting a job/internship is an excellent way to build your resume. Its also an excellent way to make money that can be put towards your college education. If meeting the NCAA Eligibility standards seems daunting, try taking summer classes to raise your grades and/or ease next year's schedule.
College Recruiting Advice: Senior Year in High School Choose an Article Utilize Your beRecruited.com AccountJunior Year and EarlierSenior YearRecruiting Trips Interview with Rick CurlA Coaches' PerspectiveThe Big TripWhat Coaches WantNarrowing the ListMarketing YourselfTips for Choosing the Right College The Lowdown of Loans6 Steps to Financial AidWith HonorsBack To School
The college application and recruiting process can be intimidating. Here is some advice, from collegiate athletes, to make this process as easy as possible.
Before you know it, you'll be opening acceptance letters. You still have to take care of a few things though, like graduating! You should take the SAT's in the fall- especially if you are applying early. Study hard for the test, because it is probably your last chance before applications are due. If you have not taken at least three SAT II's- make sure to do so. Remember, many colleges have SAT II requirements. If you are not content with your SAT II scores from junior year, retaking them cannot hurt.
In the classroom, do not enter senior slump during the first semester! You have to maintain a challenging schedule- and do well. Colleges look very closely at first semester grades from senior year. Once your applications are in, you can probably begin to focus more on lacrosse than you did first semester. But, remember, if you become waitlisted, colleges rely heavily upon second semester grades.
Keep in contact with your college guidance counselor. Make sure he/she knows your feelings about each school on your preliminary list. Ask him/her your honest chances of getting into each college. Together, and with your parents, begin to narrow your list of schools down to about 3-5 (not including safeties). If there is one school that is your clear favorite, discuss applying early with your family and counselor. Either way, make sure that you have the applications for each school you are interested in. Begin working on the applications as early as possible- applying to college is a time consuming task that should not be left for one weekend. Decide what you are going to write your essay(s) about.
If funding college is an issue, talk to your guidance counselor and your family about possible options. Maybe you'll have to cut a couple schools off the list. Perhaps you can apply for various scholarships (especially if an athletic scholarship looks doubtful). Most schools offer financial aid and/or academic scholarships- so make sure to inquire about these.
Throughout the entire process, make sure you are in contact with the coaches of all the universities to which you plan to apply. Begin to get a feel for the program and the coach (in which division do you fit best?). How does the coach feel about you? How would you fit in the team? Remember to be honest with yourself. Do all the research necessary so that you can be as informed as possible.
Start planning official recruiting trips and/or unofficial visits as early as possible. Make sure these visits do not interfere with your athletics and school work. Inform your teachers that you will be missing work. Also remind your coaches and ask for a workout to do while visiting. If you are planning on applying early, be extra sure you plan your recruiting trips early, and make sure you are aware of all the appropriate deadlines. Don't let "recruiting" adversely affect your athletic performance- just compete as best you can and enjoy your senior year!
College Recruiting Advice: College Recruiting Trips
Choose an Article Utilize Your beRecruited.com AccountJunior Year and EarlierSenior YearRecruiting Trips Interview with Rick CurlA Coaches' PerspectiveThe Big TripWhat Coaches WantNarrowing the ListMarketing YourselfTips for Choosing the Right College The Lowdown of Loans6 Steps to Financial AidWith HonorsBack To School
Official visits (or recruiting trips) are perhaps the best way for you to find out where you will best fit in, and where you want to study. The rules regarding official visits differ upon the school's division. For Division I, II, and III official visits, the university can pay for your transportation and 48-hour stay. You are allowed to take official visits to five (5) different Division I and II universities or schools. There is no limit to the number of official visits you may take to a Division III school.
If you are going to apply early, make sure you plan your trips as early as possible, to leave yourself enough time to make an informed decision.
You only have 48 hours to visit the campus, so make the best of every minute. Try to plan your trip so that your official visit starts on a Friday morning. This allows you to go to some classes and see what a typical weekend is like. If you plan your visit far enough in advance you should make sure you can sit in on some of the classes that interest you. Make sure to inform the coach of your preferences.
While attending classes, notice their size and atmosphere. Notice the ability of the professor. Would you feel comfortable learning in this environment?
Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions. Ask about which classes are interesting or fun. Ask about how difficult it is to balance academics, athletics, and social life. Ask the team members about the practices and weight program. Ask them if they have improved while at this school and whether or not they have enjoyed themselves. Ask what other schools they applied to and why they ended up at that particular school. Keep your ears open- you may learn something important.
Ask the coach what the average GPA and SAT is on the team and the university as a whole, and see if you could handle the academics of the school. Try to see if the coach's style is compatible with your personality and with your goals. Make sure you see the athletic facilities and try to meet as many people on the team as you can. See where your athletic ability would put you on the roster and in conference play. Be sure to talk to your fellow recruits.
Most importantly make sure you are happy and you can see yourself living at the college for the next four years. Ask the coach what percentage of his/her players stay on the team all four years. Look around you and see if people are enjoying themselves.
Don't fell pressured into to being someone you're not. Just be yourself and have fun!
College Recruiting Advice: An Interview with Rick Curl
By Ryan Spoon, Published by USA-Swimming
Choose an Article Utilize Your beRecruited.com AccountJunior Year and EarlierSenior YearRecruiting Trips Interview with Rick CurlA Coaches' PerspectiveThe Big TripWhat Coaches WantNarrowing the ListMarketing YourselfTips for Choosing the Right College The Lowdown of Loans6 Steps to Financial AidWith HonorsBack To School
The following is an in-depth interview with Rick Curl, the Head Coach of Curl-Burke Swim Club. Rick Curl and the Curl-Burke Swim Club are currently featured in Swimming World Magazine. He has coached several national champions, gold medalists, and world-record holders including Tom Dolan and Mike Barrowman. Curl- Burke is extremely proud of its emphasis on the student-athlete. In the past five years, an average graduating class of thirty-five swimmers have attended and swum for many of the nation's most prestigious and highly regarded universities. Furthermore, over half of the graduates have received financial aid based upon academic and/or athletic excellence.
Ryan Spoon: What is your role in your swimmers' recruiting process?
Rick Curl: Beginning the spring (April) of the year prior to their graduation, I meet with that class and talk to them about beginning to focus in on their choices and what they should be looking at in terms of colleges. They compile their academic profiles (comprised of GPA, SAT, ACT, and AP scores) any outstanding awards that they've achieved, and/or any outstanding activities that they've been involved in. I then file each swimmer's profile, both academic and athletic, in a separate folder with his or her graduating class. I can now provide college coaches with pertinent and necessary information and statistics. That's the first step.
They come back to me in the middle of May with a list of five to ten schools-preferably five. I tell them they can only go to one, so there's no sense in making this list a mile long because in the end it just bogs them down and gets confusing. By July 1st I have contacted the coaches and programs appearing on such lists and provide a detailed academic and athletic profile of each interested swimmer. I review the academic, athletic, and social risks for each athlete and indicate any potential financial aid requirements. I then discuss and encourage my kids to sign early; because, if handled appropriately, the process can be complete by November.
RS: What do you advise your swimmers to look for in a college and in a swimming program?
RC: The first priority is certainly academics. In high school most kids have no idea what they want to be. If they truly do know that they want to be an architect, a doctor, or an interior designer, then they need to focus on schools with appropriate curriculums. For instance, I had a senior this year who wanted to be in hotel management. Well, Cornell has the best program in the country, so why not go there? And that's where he's going. However, at seventeen and eighteen, most kids have no idea what they want to do later in life-many will change their mind several times before graduating from college.
Swim program- I always think that the most important thing is not to swim in a program that is over your head. And, frankly, most of the kids who come out of our program should be in Division II or III if they want to swim in an NCAA Championship meet. That gives them a full experience. They can be a big fish in a small pond.
What's the seriousness of the program? I think it should offer a serious training program that's not over their heads. Hence, they can experience the fullness of being a college athlete, being on a travel team, scoring at the conference meet, swimming at NCAAs, and being a big player (or at least a player). But, NCAA's is reserved only for the very, very, very talented. It's very difficult to make Division I standards, so I'm all in favor of Division II and III if the school fits academically.
RS: What advice do you give your swimmers before taking recruiting trips?
RC: It's very important. I say you know you're looking at the school, but believe me, the swimmers, the coach, etc. are looking at you. Don't misbehave. Socially- be on your very best behavior, and understand that you are being evaluated too. Ask a lot of questions; focus on the freshman class in particular because those are the swimmers you are going to be with for the next three years. Ask questions of the coach to get kind of a feel for his personality or her personality. Most importantly, be yourself. Keep your eyes wide open; envision yourself in this setting on a daily basis.
You'll see the very best, so I think when you come back, or on the way back, write down the pros and the cons. What did you like? What did you not like? If that "didn't like" list is anywhere near more than one or two items then that probably isn't the school for you because you will see the very best-perhaps a "skewed" view of the school and program. After all, the recruiting trip is a program's ultimate "sales pitch."
RS: How do you advise a swimmer to market himself?
RC: I call college coaches for each one of my swimmers. I spend an enormous amount of time, energy, and money making these contacts. But I believe that it's part of my role and responsibility, and I've seen great success so I'm pretty proud about what I do on behalf of my swimmers because it's a family and they give to me and I give to them and that's the way it works in my group. Basically, I am very frank and very honest with the coaches.
Furthermore, it is my responsibility and interest to help my athletes choose programs that meet their goals and needs. The NCAA system makes it very challenging for the serious, internationally focused swimmers to thrive! I encourage all my swimmers to choose an environment that will challenge them on a daily basis. Then, the chance for success is greatest.
I tell the swimmers that they need to sound intelligent when they talk on the phone, to have a list of questions in front of them, not to worry if a coach doesn't call every week during the season, to be enthusiastic, to ask great questions and to put the coach on the line. I think that the smarter the swimmer comes across, the more impressed the coach is going to be. If they sit on the phone playing gameboy with the other hand while asking shallow questions, they will appear unimpressive.
I think that a college coach wants to know and to hear that a swimmer is coming with wide eyes saying "I want to be a big part of your team, I want to perform for your team, and I want to get better." I think that every coach wants to have someone who is enthusiastic and has a great, positive attitude, that isn't afraid to work hard and to try new things.
RS: What is the best piece of advice you offer your swimmers during their junior years?
RC: They have to be focused. Don't take a huge load of classes and really focus on your swimming. The numbers that you put up in the pool are going to be the ones that the coaches look at. Your senior year isn't even going to be considered because you will hopefully decide where you will go before November, and before November, there are no fast competitions. They also look at your GPA, so you have to keep that up. I don't think that you need a ton of AP classes-you need good grades. A 4.0 is outstanding and attractive regardless of schedule or courses. So, junior year be focused, have your best swimming times, and excel and improve academically. to set up a personal interview. (You might be able to persuade the coordinator to let you try a class or two.)
Even if you'd prefer your freshman year to be honors-free, do reconsider when you return as a sophomore. You don't have to start as an honors-program student to finish your college experience at the top of the class!
College Recruiting Advice: Choosing the Right School & Team
By Ryan Spoon, Published by USA-Swimming
Choose an Article Utilize Your beRecruited.com AccountJunior Year and EarlierSenior YearRecruiting Trips Interview with Rick CurlA Coaches' PerspectiveThe Big TripWhat Coaches WantNarrowing the ListMarketing YourselfTips for Choosing the Right College The Lowdown of Loans6 Steps to Financial AidWith HonorsBack To School
We will be hosting a weekly article on the various aspects of recruiting in the upcoming months to help swimmers as they prepare for the daunting task of finding the right college. Be sure to check back each Wednesday for a new article.
The process of selecting a college is both challenging and consequential. When forced to consider swimming as well, the task becomes even more daunting. While attempting to find the ideal fit academically and athletically, it is necessary to set certain criteria for potential colleges and swimming programs. Perhaps overwhelmed by the plethora of possibilities, high school swimmers must focus their college search by first assessing their abilities and desires. After reading this article, begin to formulate your very own college criteria and hopefully even find several matching colleges and/or universities.
College
Academics/Reputation
The most important aspect of a college is its academic program and philosophy. Students must find a college or university that best matches their academic abilities and goals. For instance, potential architects should seek colleges that provide an architectural program or the opportunity to explore this discipline. Many schools only offer a liberal arts education; thus, those pursuing unique degrees (like engineering) must find schools that cater to such interests. Furthermore, colleges provide statistical profiles of current students and admissions criteria‹compare your GPA and SAT scores to assess compatibility.
Size and Location
Size and location are integral components of a school's character. State universities, for instance, tend to be rather large, while liberal arts colleges tend to be much smaller. Class sizes can range anywhere from a couple of hundred to several thousand students. Often, smaller colleges offer a more intimate classroom setting and a lower teacher-to-student ratio. Classes at larger universities are frequently taught in a lecture style. A school's location is as defining as its size. Many students attend in-state colleges while others travel across the country each semester. Decide where you are most comfortable geographically. Furthermore, the potential college student must choose either an urban, suburban, or rural setting.
Price
Tuitions range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. Explore academic as well as outside, privately-sponsored scholarships. Furthermore, research the possibility of student employment, as many colleges offer work-study positions. Most importantly, though, many schools offer financial-aid through both grants and loans.
Swimming
Coaching
Much of a team's success relies on its coaching staff. Because each staff is different, be sure that their philosophies are compatible with yours. Ask coaches to describe a typical practice and week. Meanwhile, try to assess each coach's style and personality. Furthermore, some teams have the same head coach for both the men's and women's teams; others have completely separate staffs. Be sure that you are comfortable around and with each coach. After all, you are commencing a four-year relationship.
Program
All collegiate swimming programs are markedly different. A program consists not only of swimming but also of weight and dry land training. Some teams work exclusively with weights, yet others use various tools such as medicine balls, power racks, and stretch cords. Moreover, some programs completely separate men and women. Also, pay careful attention to a school's facilities. Are the pool and weight room adequate? Is there ample lane space? Is there a separate diving well? Be sure to comprehensively research each swimming program before assessing your compatibility.
Scholarship/Division
There are collegiate swimming programs of varied ability. By comparing best times, develop a list of colleges with programs that suit your skill level. Many swimmers are content to compete on the Division III level; others desire Division I competition. Whatever your ability may be, there is certainly a matching program. Remember, however, that only Division I and II schools may offer athletic scholarships. If college appears a financial burden or impossibility, contact programs that provide scholarships. College Recruiting Advice: Marketing Yourself to Coaches and Recruiters
By Ryan Spoon, Published by USA-Swimming
Choose an Article Utilize Your beRecruited.com AccountJunior Year and EarlierSenior YearRecruiting Trips Interview with Rick CurlA Coaches' PerspectiveThe Big TripWhat Coaches WantNarrowing the ListMarketing YourselfTips for Choosing the Right College The Lowdown of Loans6 Steps to Financial AidWith HonorsBack To School
College-bound student-athletes often struggle to effectively market themselves academically and athletically. Even supremely talented and attractive student-athletes encounter difficulties in promoting their abilities. Two student-athletes of the same academic and athletic caliber might be separated by a strong initiative for successful self-marketing. This week's installment focuses on standing out from other swimmers.
Athletics
The first ingredient of successful marketing is an attractive product. Just as an automobile company spends years perfecting a new model, exert the necessary effort and time to better your swimming skills and results.
Do college research early and often and create a tentative list of probable colleges. Gather the email addresses of these colleges' swimming coaches and inform them of your interest and athletic and academic ability. Persistence pays off! If a coach does not respond, be sure to send a follow-up email. Many coaches will then send (via mail) an inquiry form; be sure to complete and return the form immediately. Start relationships with these coaches, but be careful to stay within the guidelines of NCAA regulations-you can visit beRecruited.com's "Swimmers' Links" for more information.
Inform the coaches of more than just your best times. Alert them of any progress you have made either in the pool or in the classroom. Between two comparable swimmers, a coach will find the one demonstrating marked improvement most appealing. Remember to constantly update coaches of recent results. When talking to coaches, sound interested and remain honest.
Having your club coach contact collegiate coaches is an excellent way to convey your interest and provide him/her with another useful source of information.
Plan and take recruiting trips (look for future articles for more information on this subject). They are an excellent opportunity for you to learn about a particular school and for that school and swimming program to learn about you. Be attentive, aware, and interested. Be sure to interact with the coach and to reiterate your interest in his school and his program. Ask the coach if he has any questions for you.
Register with beRecruited.com. With over 100 registered college and collegiate coaches from Divisions I, II, and III, beRecruited.com does the marketing for you!
Academics
Colleges place great importance on and pay close attention to grades and standardized test scores. Prepare for standardized tests such as the SAT by hiring a tutor or taking a local course. You can also buy books and audio cassettes geared towards improving SAT scores. While training in the water, be careful not to neglect your academics.
Unfortunately, the SAT tends to overshadow the PSAT. The PSAT, however, is an excellent opportunity for students to market themselves academically. A high score on the PSAT not only generates interest and recognition from colleges and universities, it provides scholarship opportunities.
Many students overlook the importance of the college application. Take time and care when preparing applications-fill them out thoroughly. Write essays that admissions officers will find interesting and insightful. Get recommendations from those teachers who know you both (as a student and a person) personally and academically.
Below are brief descriptions of the programs available thru Scout USA. To register or receive more info, please follow the link at bottom of page or click here. If you are already a Scout USA Athlete, you may contact us and upgrade at any time.
Online Profile & Sports Fax. Put your profile directly online for a one-time fee of just $99 and update FREE any time you like your entire high school career. All online registrations include our popular Sports Fax program to your top 12 schools of choice. Registration CAN be done directly online for this program.
ScoutUSA Silver Program. Includes an online profile as described above and direct contact to your top 25 schools of choice upon your signing and your updated profile will also be sent directly to the head coach of your sport twice per school year (August and January) throughout you career. The Silver program will give you the important online profile, plus to make sure you get, and stay recruited, we'll forward your profile directly to the schools that matter most to you. When complete, we'll send you a complete list of all programs and dates that your profile was submitted to the coaches.
Cost: $259 one-time fee.
ScoutUSA Gold Program. This program leaves no stone unturned! You list 50 programs of interest and we do everything else. We forward your updated profile directly to the head coach of your sport twice per school year (August and January) throughout your career. If you are serious about getting recruited, don't miss out on this program because the exposure you get with our Gold Program is unmatched. And as always....when complete, we'll send you a complete list of all programs and dates that your profile was submitted to the coaches.
Cost: $299 one time fee.
ScoutUSA Platinum Program. This program is one of the most effective programs around! You pick up to 100 colleges of interest and we put your information in the hands of the recruiters at the colleges of your choice. ScoutUSA then forwards your updated profile to your schools of choice twice per school year (August and January) You pick the schools, and we do the work for you!
Cost: $399 one-time fee.
ScoutUSA All-Star Program. This program is second to none in the athletic exposure industry! You choose up to 150 colleges and we place your athletic and academic information directly in the hands of the recruiters at the colleges you chose. Your updated ScoutUSA profile will forwarded direct to the head coach of your sport twice per year throughout your High School and/or Junior College Career.
Cost: $499 one-time fee.
Register ONLINE Today and receive Sports Fax!
Build your player profile today and we'll forward your profile directly to your top 12 schools of choice! Once registered, ScoutUSA will automatically mail you a form for your Sports Fax to your top 12 programs.
Your Player Profile is available immediately after you build it!
Updates are free and can be done online any time you like free!
Includes our Nationally Recognized Sports Fax free!
Recruit is the premier national scouting and recruiting service leader for high school athletes and college coaches. Our Regional Scouting Directors (you, the franchisee) find qualified high school athletes in your franchise area and Recruit matches them with college coaches who are looking for talented athletes.
Hundreds of athletes are brought into the Recruit program every year by our team of national and international franchisees, and those athletes get exposed to college coaches throughout the United States! College coaches also use the recruiting information and resources at Recruit, letting us know what they are looking for and the types of scholarships that they are offering. You and Recruit can then match up an athlete with a college coach, giving the coach the athlete they want and rewarding the athlete with a college sports career and a scholarship. You, the local Recruit franchisee, makes that happen for your local athletes!
Each Recruit franchise owner builds his or her area in their own unique way with Recruit's help. Recruit's proven local marketing system and stellar national reputation mean that each Recruit franchise is successful quickly with minimal start-up costs. As a Recruit franchisee, think of yourself as your community's local athletic recruiting expert. Recruit gives high school athletes the recruiting edge they need in the competitive world of college sports scholarships. As a Recruit franchise owner, you will be the your area's personal recruiting consultant that your community turns to for answers and assistance! What does that mean for you? Repeat business, year after year, working with new athletes at the high school level in search of a college sports scholarship.
You, the franchise manager for Recruit in your area, collect a one-time enrollment fee from the student-athlete and their family (ranging between $895 and $2495). You earn a sizable commission for your work in bringing the athlete into the Recruit program and continuing your work with them as they move through the recruiting process. Recruit offers outstanding ongoing support and marketing for each franchise manager which sets us apart from most franchise opportunities, ensuring that you have time to focus on developing relationships with your local athletic community - NOT spending time cold calling, doing needless paperwork and other time consuming chores.
Recruit is focused on major franchisee growth in 2004 and early 2005, and we need qualified, motivated, talented individuals to join our team. Recruit is redefining college athletic recruiting, and we need you to help us continue our high rate of growth and success! Be a part of this exciting, growing organization by becoming a Recruit franchisee.
Are you the person that can help make that happen in your community? Do you love sports and want to make it your business? Do you have at least $11,000 to devote towards opening a franchise in your area? If so, fill out the information request form below and begin taking the steps towards being a college sports scout and consultant today! Academic / Athlete - Provides online profiles with photos, statistics, and other personal information for high school student athletes.
All Star Athletes - Produces highlight videos in a variety of formats, and provides scholarship search and matching services for members.
Applied Sports Technology - Maintains a national database of athletes for collegiate and professional organizations, with proprietary formulae for assessing physical, mental, and position performance suitability..
Athlete Web Services, Inc. - Provides professional websites, sports marketing, and promotional management to athletes, teams, and sports organizations.
Athletes Bound for College - Do-it-yourself profiling kits and newsletter about the college recruiting process.
The Athlete's Professional Editor - Online provider of digital editing and enhancement of highlight videos on DVD.
Athletic Empire Corporation - Consulting and marketing services serving athletes in high schools, universities, and corporations.
Athletic Scholarship Connection - Resource for direct promotion of student athletes to college sports teams and programs. Provides criticisms of recruiting and scouting services, as well as related links.
Athletic Scholarships - Offers a one-page fax or email of a player's profile or resume to various coaches.
Athletic Scholarships - A scholarship search service for prospective college athletes. Site contains testimonials, a description of the service, FAQs, and an introduction to the owner.
Baseball Prospects - Online recruiting service providing high school baseball athletes exposure to college coaches nationwide. Includes articles, camp information, and related links.
Be Recruited - Connects high school athletes and college coaches using a free database of profiles. Provides sample profiles, message forum, advice from athletes and coaches, success stories, help to find a school, and related links.
Best Foot Forward - Best Foot Forward is a consulting group that provides personalized guidance high school students. Site contains a list of services, benefits, a FAQ, contacts and managers' biographies.
College Athletic Placement Service (CAPS) - Offering personal athletic scholarship assistance. Testimonials, description of program, and FAQs.
College Bound Athletic Connection - Ohio based, high school and college athletic recruiting service of Christian Sport Camps. Site includes online application, athlete profiles, photographs from summer leagues, and related links.
College Prospects of America, Inc. - Links to regional websites, description of services, contact information and a questionnaire.
College Sports Connection - A free which allows the user to search for prospective coaches or athletes. Allows the use of profiles, pictures, and videos. Also provides searches for summer camps and video editors.
College Sports Recruiting - Provides on-line player profiles to specific college coaches. Sample profiles provided online.
Community College Recruiting - Provides resume service for high school athletes who want to apply for athletic scholarships at junior and community colleges. Includes eligibility rules, amateur status definition, and related links.
Digital Recruiting Service - Custom resumes and letter head, VHS video taping, scholarship counseling, and photo editing services.
DVD Recruiting - Creates Personalized Video Discs (PVDs) containing a student athlete's personal, academic, and sports information for distribution to recruiters or coaches. Production descript