Recruiting Checklist for Student-Athletes (1 of 3)
Academic Preparation
TIMEFRAME – Year-Round
ACTIVITIES – Identifying Interests and Developing Skills
- Participate in Various Sports
Explore different sports to find your interests and talents.
- Develop Basic Skills and Understanding
Focus on learning the fundamentals and strategies of the sport(s) you enjoy.
- Have Fun
Enjoy the process, make new friends, and build relationships with coaches and trainers who can help you grow competitively.
Academic Preparation
OVERALL – Early Preparation and Skill Development
TIMEFRAME – Year-Round
ACTIVITIES – Academic and Athletic Preparation
- Establish Strong Study Habits and Maintain Good Grades
Ensure academic success to meet eligibility requirements for college sports.
Register with NCAA or NAIA Eligibility Center
- Free Account Profile: Middle school athletes, future DIII athletes, or those still determining their division.
- Amateurism-Only Certification: International students for DIII, or 2-year and 4-year transfers to D1 or D2.
- Academic and Amateurism Certification: Athletes planning to sign a National Letter of Intent (NLI) for D1 or D2, or for official college visits ($100 Domestic, $160 International).
- Participate in School and Local Club Teams
Gain experience and exposure through school sports teams and local club teams.
- Attend Camps and Clinics
Develop overall and sport-specific skills by participating in camps and clinics.
Recruiting Checklist for Student-Athletes (2 of 3)
Grade level - Sophomore Year (10th Grade) OVERALL GOAL - Increased Visibility and Academic Focus
Showcasing Talents
Highlight Achievements
Showcase your talents and leadership roles, such as being a team captain, leading in stats, or playing varsity as a sophomore.
Sign Up for the Sports Agenda Social Media Challenge
Participate in a 30-day challenge to boost your visibility and online presence.
Review game or practice footage
Create and start compiling highlight videos
Register with NCAA or NAIA Eligibility Center
Free Account Profile: Middle school athletes, future DIII athletes, or those still determining their division.
Amateurism-Only Certification: International students for DIII, or 2-year and 4-year transfers to D1 or D2.
3.Academic and Amateurism Certification: Athletes planning to sign a National Letter of Intent (NLI) for D1 or D2, or for official college visits ($100 Domestic, $160 International).
Building a Recruiting Profile
Focus on Academics
Build a solid GPA foundation.
Research Colleges and Recruiting Rules
Use resources like the Sports Agenda Consultants Guide to understand recruiting rules and start identifying potential colleges.
Document Your Journey
Use resources like the Sports Agenda Consultants Guide to understand recruiting rules and start identifying potential colleges.
Recruiting Checklist for Student-Athletes (2 of 3)
Grade level - Junior Year (11th Grade) OVERALL GOAL - Active Recruitment and College Interaction
Engaging with Colleges
Develop a List of Potential Colleges
Research and list colleges that fit your academic and athletic profile.
Send Introductory Emails to College Coaches
Reach out to coaches with a brief introduction and highlight your interest and achievements.
Compete in High-Profile Tournaments
Gain visibility by participating in high-profile competitions.
Take Unofficial College Visits
Visit campuses to get a feel for the environment and facilities.
Update and Send Highlight Videos to College Coaches
Keep coaches updated with your latest performances and achievements.
Ensuring Compliance and Academic Readiness
Ensure Compliance with NCAA Academic Requirements
Stay informed and compliant with NCAA Eligibility
Take SAT/ACT and Send Scores
Complete standardized tests and send scores to prospective colleges.
Maintain Strong Academic Performance
Continue focusing on academics to meet college admission and eligibility requirements.
Grade level - Senior Year (12th Grade) OVERALL GOAL - Finalizing the Recruitment Process
Take official visits to top college choices
Stay in regular contact with college coaches
Apply to chosen colleges and ensure all requirements are met
Participate in National Letter of Intent (NLI) signing periods if offered a scholarship
Maintain high performance levels in both academics and athletics