By Ryan Turner
As we enter the school year, the importance of time management and preparation for recruiting, much like academics, is vital for future success. It is important for any student- athlete interested in playing college lacrosse to understand the differences between official and unofficial visits and how they will play a distinct role in the recruiting process.
Official Visits
An official visit is any visit to a college/university campus that is paid for by the college/university. These expenditures can include transportation costs, room and board, and a stipend for entertainment expenses. To be eligible to receive an official visit you must be registered with the NCAA clearinghouse and also must have your transcripts readily available for the particular college or university. At the Division I and II levels you are allowed up to five official visits to different colleges and are only allowed one official visit per school. Division III institutions can offer an unlimited amount of official visits after the opening day of your senior year.
When on campus and talking with a coach, be up front and ask many questions to see where you fit in on the recruiting list. Be sure to ask what the next steps are and always send a thank you note or email after the visit.
Unofficial visits
An unofficial visit is any visit to a college/university campus that is not funded by the college/university. Student-athletes are allowed unlimited unofficial visits and should schedule these visits as early and often as possible starting freshman year.
It can be hard to find time to visit schools during season. Take advantage of the fall months before season. During those visits make sure you have your upcoming high school schedule and a list of any tournaments you will be attending.
Before you visit a college/university, you must call or email the lacrosse coach to inform him/her that you are coming to campus and would like to schedule a meeting. If you have video available, make sure you send it to the coach before you visit. Also, ask the coach if he recommends an admission interview and tour of campus while you are on campus.
Typically, a coach will talk to you and your parents about their institution and program and give you a tour of the facilities.
If you take the initiative to schedule an unofficial visit and you arrive with some knowledge about the college and a list of concise questions, you are likely to move up on the coach’s list of potential lacrosse athletes. Be proactive!
