Ask Coach Taylor – Do I Have to Start in High School?
December 2nd, 2009 - byCoach – I played for a really good high school team and did not start or receive significant playing time. Is it still possible to play in college?
This depends on a number of factors, but “yes” it is possible to play for a college team if you were not a major contributor on your high school team. That being said, you still need to possess the skill required to play collegiate athletics even if you were unable to display that skill on your high school team.
There can be numerous extenuating circumstances that would prevent a solid athlete from playing a lot in high school and college coaches understand that. Check out this story about one college athlete who was never the star of his high school team.
If you feel like you have the ability to play at the next level, but lack the experience in high school to prove it, I suggest you take advantage of third parties to alert college coaches about your desire and most importantly, be realistic! In order to get realistic, talk to an expert who can give you an honest idea of whether or not you have the ability needed to be introduced to college coaches.
Finally, you will need to find a way to display your ability to college coaches at some point whether it be through a skills tape, limited game film, or possibly even a tryout.
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
