Ryan Harris - Mapplewoods College
Looking back on the recruiting process, it was kind of stressful and rewarding for me at the same time. There were so many e-mails, phone calls, showcases, and hours spent on possible schools and baseball programs. Doing the video was fun and NCSA made it easy to send to Coaches.
The most difficult challenges were getting responses back from the Coaches, being able to travel to visit the colleges and meet with the Coaches. On the other hand, the most rewarding times were when I received calls from Coaches and we would talk for a long time and they would ask me to come for a visit. I also liked getting feedback on my video.
NCSA was there for us anytime. They helped in so many ways: getting my name out there to numerous baseball programs, giving advice, and editing my video. They sent out my profile and video to many colleges in states that I chose and also to colleges that I had requested. I think it peeked many Coaches’ interest when NCSA sent them my information.
I would tell anyone that wants to play, that you have to be patient but persistent for it to pay off. You have to be willing to devote a lot of time, be organized and not give up. Look for a good fit for you; don’t get hung up on if it’s a D1 or D2 college. The main thing I learned is that you have to go to them and be aggressive. Don’t wait for them to come to you!
College life is great. It’s definitely different being away from home and making my own decisions. Being a student athlete is very busy but it has its perks. Being involved in a sport makes college much more exciting than just going to classes. You have a large group of friends with a common interest. You become close to your roommate and teammates. You’re like a family.
Balancing studying, practices, working out, and playing games can be difficult. I have found that you have to stay focused, disciplined, and use good time management. You cannot afford to get lazy or stray from what is important to you. You have to keep your priorities straight.
To sum it all up, everything we did to get to this point, has been well worth it. We made some good choices. I could not have asked for a better baseball program and Coaches. I paired up with a roommate that I know I will be friends with for life. We gel! Maplewoods College, the Coaches, baseball program, and teammates have all been a perfect fit for me. I am so lucky to be where I am today!
Thanks NCSA for all your guidance and experience!
