Spring is here and recruiting camps for all sports will start ramping up soon. Here are a few things student-athletes should consider before signing up or accepting invitations.
It’s that time of year, folks. Fall sports are wrapping up for the school year and offseasons are about to begin. Recruiting camps are a great way for athletes looking to compete at the next level to showcase their talent. These events allow high school student-athletes to showcase their skills to college coaches in hopes of earning an athletic scholarship or a spot on a college team. Colleges, universities or third-party groups host these events to provide opportunities for coaches to evaluate potential recruits in person.
Athletes should approach showcases with a clear strategy in mind. Here are some tips to help athletes make the most of their recruiting camp experience.
Set realistic camp goals.
Before attending, athletes should set realistic goals for themselves before attending a recruiting camp. Identify the colleges you are interested in and determine what you want to accomplish. You may want to make a certain number of contacts or highlight your skills in a specific area. Don’t be concerned with walking away with a scholarship the same day. These events are about making yourself memorable.
Research the camp.
Research the recruiting camps you are considering attending to ensure they are a good fit for your goals and abilities. Look for events that are attended by coaches from the colleges you are interested in and that offer opportunities to showcase your skills. Some showcases can get pretty expensive. Free Game — don’t waste your time and money at a camp that does not fit your level of play.
Make a good first impression.
Stand out by being on time, appropriately dressed and ready to work hard. Generally, coaches are looking for good players, but also good people. Be respectful to coaches, staff, and other athletes at the camp as well. No matter how you perform at the camp, you can always control your energy and effort. Being a good teammate and a great communicator are easy ways to get on coaches’ radars.
Camps are about building relationships.
Take advantage of the opportunity to network and build relationships with coaches and other athletes at the camp. Be proactive in introducing yourself to coaches and asking for feedback on your performance. Only contact coaches during contact periods permitted by the NCAA. Not only are camps a chance for student-athletes to be seen by coaches, but players and parents also get to see how a certain coaching staff works.
Follow up after the camp.
Afterward, follow up by sending thank-you notes to coaches and continuing to communicate with them about their progress. While you wait, work on your skills and stay in good physical shape to be ready for future opportunities. Also, update coaches on your academics and your interest in a major the school is offering. Finally, learn from each experience!