RECRUITING Q&AS
Below you’ll find a collection of some of the most common questions asked by prospective student-athletes.
WHEN SHOULD I START TO CONTACT COACHES?
As soon as possible. There is no such thing as starting too early but there is the potential to start too late. Although NCAA coaches cannot directly communicate with a prospective athlete until June 15 ahead of their Junior Year (Grade 11) that shouldn't stop you from sending them emails and highlight film.
DO I NEED HIGHLIGHT VIDEO?
Absolutely. Highlight video (and even full game video) is crucial for an athlete in order to generate interest from coaches and schools. Make sure it is high quality, recent game film that serves to best highlight all of the qualities that would make you an asset to any team.
WHAT IS THE NCAA ELIGIBILITY CENTRE?
The NCAA Eligibility Centre is essentially a clearing house for all student-athletes so that programs can ensure a prospective recruit meets all of the athletic and academic requirements to be eligible to play in the NCAA. And YES, there are requirements.
DO I REQUIRE THE SAT/ACT?
The NCAA recently waived the SAT/ACT scores to determine athlete eligibility however, just because the NCAA waived it does not mean that a school no longer requires it for the basis of academic admission.
More and more NCAA schools are moving to a test-optional system however athletes should confirm with a program whether or not it will be required for admission and plan accordingly.
WHAT TYPE OF SCHOLARSHIP MONEY IS AVAILABLE?
Scholarship rules are vastly different between Canada and the US.
In Canada, it varies between provinces but no school can offer Athletic Financial Aid (AFA) greater than the cost of tuition and mandatory fees.
In the US it varies between NCAA divisions and the NAIA. There is also significant differences between states, and private and public institutions, with respect to total cost of attendance and international tuition rates.
Athletes and their families should focus on a realistic budget for attending school - with or without scholarship.
DO I NEED A RECRUITING COORDINATOR?
No. Your recruiting process is ultimately your own journey. You can manage all aspects of recruiting on your own but it will take time, effort, and dedication. A recruiting coordinator can establish connections, get you organized, create your online brand, and be your resource with respect to all of the finer details of being recruited.