Looking to play football in college? You think you have what it takes? There are over 850 college football programs and over 80,000 college football players participating in college football. That means the competition is steep and you need to start the recruitment process ASAP.
A college coach prepares a game plan for every opponent. Similarly, aspiring collegiate athletes must follow a plan to get recruited by a college program. The following 5 tips are to help high school football players enhance athleticism and gain exposure to get recruited by a college football coach.
1. Engrain good habits
Make your health a priority. You are going to finish four years of playing football in high school before even stepping foot on the turf of your new school–a university where football takes more of your time and will become an even bigger part of your life. The practices will be harder and the days will be longer–so take care of yourself now to imbed healthy habits. Eat right, drink water, and get sleep. Get yourself stronger in the gym, do general speed, core strength, and movement exercises. Focus on drills that will enhance your performance on the field AND up your physical fitness as a whole.
Related: Rise and Grind: An Ideal 3-Step Morning Routine for College Athletes
2. Take the right classes
Did you know that the classes you take in your freshman year of high school directly affect your NCAA eligibility? Plus, eligibility standards are constantly changing so it is important to keep up so you are not scrambling to complete the list of requirements in your senior year of high school. It is the athlete's responsibility to ensure they are fulfilling the NCAA requirements. However, this can be tough at times, so develop a strong relationship with your guidance counselor and allow them to guide you in your course selections throughout your four years of high school. Also, do NOT forget to register with the NCAA Eligibility Center for $50 so you don't miss out on the chance to play at the collegiate level!
3. Do your research
Before visiting schools, figure out what you are looking for in a school. Do not overwhelm yourself by making a list of 200+ schools that you want to visit. Do you prefer a big or small school? Big or small classroom sizes? Division I, II, or III? NAIA or JuCo? A commuter school or one in which everyone stays on campus? How much do facilities matter to you? Keep these questions in mind before contacting coaches from a school you could not see yourself enjoying. Football may seem like everything, but remember: this is going to be your home for the next four years.
Once you have narrowed down your list and discovered what it is you like, THEN research the football programs. Find out who the coaches are. Find out the size of the roster. Look at the record and have some knowledge about the team before contacting the coach to show that you are interested.
Related: 4 Lessons for Football Success
4. Create a video
The recruitment video is one of the most important ways for an athlete to get the attention of a coach. Throughout your season, take the time to obtain game footage as well as practice football. Quality of the video matters–do not send in a video filmed on your cell-phone that is shaking and unclear. I'm not saying you need to hire Steven Spielberg to create this video, but hiring a videographer or having someone well-trained in video production can be beneficial. This video can be sent to college coaches (after doing your research on which coaches to contact!) and will help put you on their radar.
Related: 5 Must-Do's For Your Football Highlight Tape (Plus 3 Things to Avoid)
5. Visit the schools and attend a University Camp
Participating in sports camps at schools you are interested in will show the coach that you are committed and allow them the chance to see you play in person. It will also allow you to talk to the athletes on the team and compete against new people. Visiting the school in person will also allow you the opportunity to imagine yourself living at that school. Remember attending a camp or visiting a school will probably be the first time meeting the coach, so try your best to make a GREAT first impression so they remember you (and have fun!).
Have an idea for a story or a question you need answered? Want to set up an interview with us? Email us at [email protected]
* Originally published on February 27, 2023, by Allison Sheahan
