Ask Coach Taylor – When Should I Commit?
November 18th, 2009 - byCoach Taylor – We understand the process starts early (my daughter is a 2012 graudate and she has already received offers). When do you recommend student-athletes make a commitment? When is it smart to hold out for a better offer?
Much like many aspects of the recruiting process, the answer to this question varies based on the individual situation. For some, committing as a sophomore is the right decision while for others it might be better to wait. Here are some things to keep in mind when deciding about making a commitment:
*When to make a commitment is going to vary from athlete to athlete – situation to situation.
It will depend on how mature and ready the athlete is with making that important decision. It will also depend on what offers are out there for you.
*Some sport offers and opportunities come very early and the athlete needs to communicate with coaches calling them and getting on campuses to visit as early as a freshman and sophomore year.
*By communicating with coaches and taking visits you will be able to tell what you like and what will be a good ‘fit’ for you to continue to play in college.
*Make a list of what things are important to you when looking at colleges: location, size, playing time opportunity, competitiveness, team unity, ability to relate and communicate with coaches, campus atmosphere, etc.
*Research schools to find out some of this information and then reach out to coach and find out their recruiting needs where you might be on the list.
*When you do come across some opportunities and offers – remember they will only be open for a window of time so talk to the coach and find out when you need to make a decision.
* It is important to not base your decision on just the athletics – be sure the school is a good fit in many other areas and it would be a fit if athletics were not part of the equation…the harsh reality is that every student-athlete is one injury away from never playing again
* Know that some opportunities that are not available early might become available later in the recruiting process
* Listen to not only the input of your parents, but also coaches, teachers and counselors. However, ultimately the decision is on the student-athlete. You will have that ‘gut’ feeling for what is the right choice for you.
Send your recruiting questions to askcoachtaylor@ncsasports.org
If you would like to speak with a NCSA Recruiting Coordinator about your personal recruiting situation, call 866-579-6272.
