April 30, 2009

College Recruiting Topics and Tips

By Jake Chapman, Showcase U Co-founder

It's important for student athletes of any age to grasp a core understand of the college recruiting process.  The quest for an athletic scholarship should be a fun experience, but a lack of knowledge about how to navigate this process can be a cause of frustration.  From time to time, I will introduce an obscure topic and some associated tips that families might find interesting and helpful.

Topic #1

• The College JV Program - Some colleges and universities carry two teams at their institution:  a varsity and a junior varsity program.  Carrying a "JV" program is one of the best ideas in college sports and I am surprised that more schools don't consider implementing one.  Consider it an internal JUCO or minor league "feeder system" for the varsity.  Benefits for the student athlete include:

• More playing time.  If you an incoming freshman and at the bottom of the program's depth chart, you don't want to spend to first year or two with little or no playing time.  A competitive schedule against junior colleges and other 4-yr institutions with JV programs can allow you to develop as a player, but keep you ready if an opportunity arises on the varsity.
• Quality competition.  Many junior/community colleges have VERY competitive programs.  Some of may be as strong or stronger than your own varsity program.  Take advantage of these opportunities to play against these JUCO powerhouses, for your varsity head coach will most certainly take notice.
• You are a collegiate athlete!  Whether you are on the varsity or JV, the intangibles are still the same: comradery, teamwork, travel, schedule, nutrition, strength training, player coach relationship.  Contributing to a team is something every college athlete wants, and let's be honest...it's also nice if Mom and Dad can come to campus and see you play those early years in the program.

• See who they play
  
• Learn how many games a typical JV season consists of.
  

• If you see several players that have transferred from the same JUCO, there may be a relationship between programs.  These JUCO transfers become competition for playing time and scholarship money. 
  
• Perhaps this JUCO could meet your athletic and academic needs and be a smart choice for you to receive a discounted education via scholarship or athletic grant.  If a relationship exists between the JUCO and a 4-yr school you are interested in, this could be a wonderful path to take.

• Visit as many athletic websites as you can to gather information relevant to your needs.  Whether you are looking to see if they have a JV program or simply offer your desired area of study.  Don't forget to ask your coach, athletic director and guidance counselors for advice.
  
• Many parents are often surprised to learn some of the best options for academic and athletic financial aid are colleges in their own state...or within 200 to 300 miles of their house.
• Looking for help?  With a simple point and click of the mouse, you can find every DI, DII, DIII, NAIA, and NJCAA in the country at ShowcaseU.com.
• Sort by proximity  (within 350 miles)
• Sort by division    (I only want to see DIII)
• Sort by state        (Show me schools in my home state)
• See for yourself and Join Today
• Free for all parents, fans and enthusiasts
  

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