There are essentially three different seasons for collegiate athletes. You have fall, winter, and spring, which all recruit at different times. Something that also affects recruiting timelines is the division you are aiming for and the year you are being recruited. Athletes who play spring sports can be offered much later than those who play fall sports.

Division III, NAIA, and junior colleges can start recruiting as early as sophomore year. While DII and DI can start recruiting junior year, no offer can be made until senior year. 

There are also two different signing periods, one in the fall and one in the spring of senior year. This allows for open spots and mid-year recruits. 

Keep these timelines in mind when contacting coaches, creating highlight videos, and visiting schools.

* Originally published on November 19, 2021, by Brittany Collens