As I’m sure is the case with many high school athletes, I didn’t have a clear understanding of the college recruiting process or the steps needed to be successful. I knew that being successful in the classroom and on the court was a good starting point but wasn’t sure how to market my abilities. We started with the typical approach of playing AAU basketball, attending tournaments, taping games, and keeping statistics. However, we were afraid that I wouldn’t have the opportunity to be seen by colleges and universities outside my local area.
When we talked with NCSA and listened to their approach, we knew that their tried and true marketing plan would take my recruiting process to the next level. When I first saw my Recruiting Profile and video, I was amazed at how professional it looked and how well the video displayed my abilities.
Of course, I was also expected to take a large part in the process by researching the schools that received my information, answering all coach requests both on-line and via mail, keeping up my correspondence log and participating in coaching sessions. At times keeping up with the coach requests and responses was a little overwhelming but I knew how important that initial contact with a college coach was.
In the end, I was offered a full scholarship from Winthrop University and gave them my verbal commitment in June. I chose to participate in the early signing period and signed on November 13th. Ultimately, signing on that dotted line was the best part of the recruiting process. I feel that NCSA not only walked me through a very confusing process but took the process to a whole new level, one that we could never have done on our own.
I would tell other student athletes to not get hung up on one college or university but to have an open mind when viewing your options. Visit the campus, get to know the coaches and players, and more importantly make sure you feel comfortable with your decision. Work hard in the classroom, on the court (or playing field) and enjoy the process. It only comes along once!
