The College Athletics Dream

“Overview”

Goals

• Introduce Basic Information about College Athletics.

• Provide an understanding of the importance of

academics, character, and leadership in the process.

Why play in College

• To continue playing sports.

• To earn financial aid for college.

• To open doors to more colleges.

• To continue your growth as a person.

Your Opportunities

Athletics Academics

Character

“Your” Opportunity

Interests

Academics

• Set a schedule that allows you to maximize your

abilities and educational experience.

• Take courses that match the collegiate opportunity for

which you are hoping to attain.

• Consider weighted courses if you can commit to the

increased workload.

• Choose a Study Hall in season if necessary.

Character/Leadership

• 2 Recommendations:

• Lead your team and within athletics at VCHS.

• Serve within your school and community.

• 2 Questions:

• What will coaches/teachers say on your reference forms?

• What is your “fingerprint”?

Athletic Development

• Healthy Living:

• 8-10 hours of sleep

• Diet, exercise, church/community involvement

• Periods of “Seasonal” Rest

• Strength and Conditioning

• Club Sports?

• Playing Multiple Sports?

Understanding the

System

NCAA

Division 1

Varied Academics

Elite Athletics

Athletic Scholarship Competition

Private and State Colleges

NCAA

Division 2

Moderate Academics

Strong Athletics

Mixed Scholarship Opportunities

Mostly State Colleges

NCAA

Division 3

Strong Academics

Open Athletics

Financial Aid through

Leadership/Academic Grants

Mostly Private Colleges

NAIA

Don’t Wait To Be Recruited

• Research:

• Naviance

• College Websites

• College Fairs

• Visit Campuses

• College Visits to VCHS: Attend Info Sessions

• Create a Strategy:

• Develop guidelines that will help you navigate your unique experience.

Most Frequent Questions

• What are the NCAA rules?

• Should I use a recruiting agency?

• Should I specialize in 1 sport?

• What would be a good fit for me?

• Can I play college sports? DI?

• What if I don’t play much on my team?

• Where are the most opportunities?

• What is the time commitment?

Useful Resources

• Websites:

• NCAA: www.eligibilitycenter.org

• NAIA: www.naia.org

• Naviance Family Connection

• Meeting with Coaches and Athletic Department.

• Meeting with Mr. Ellefsen or Counselor

• Summer “Monday Night Tutorials”

Get Started Today!