Author: eliteathletesrecruiting

Coach Mike- National Scouting Director with CSA PrepStar Professional collegiate sports scout working with qualified next level student-athletes to find the right college athletic and academic fit.

Tips on Time Management 

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Getting the hang of managing your time is super important for doing well in school, sports, and recruiting. It’s like finding the right balance between everything, and it’s not just about being good but also staying strong when things get tough. Using your time wisely means giving each part of your life the attention it needs. This helps you do great in school, shine in sports, and handle the challenges of recruiting.

Balancing everything is like having a secret game plan for success, where staying focused and being prepared makes your recruiting journey smoother. So, in the mix of school, sports, and recruiting, managing your time well is the key to rocking it all.

SAT & ACT – Reinstated

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Why Student-Athletes Should Prioritize Standardized Testing for College Recruiting
If you’re a student-athlete looking to play at the next level, taking standardized tests like the SAT or ACT is more important than ever. Many colleges—including private institutions, public universities, and state higher education systems—have reinstated their test score requirements this year. After experimenting with test-optional policies during the pandemic, schools are reaffirming the value of standardized testing in the admissions process.

For student-athletes, strong test scores can be a game-changer. Not only do they help meet admissions requirements, but they can also make you a more attractive recruit by demonstrating academic readiness. Some schools remain test-optional or test-preferred, meaning they may consider SAT or ACT scores when making admissions decisions and awarding scholarships. Submitting competitive scores can set you apart from other recruits, potentially leading to better financial aid opportunities and improving your chances of acceptance at your dream school.

As you navigate the college recruiting process, be sure to research each school’s testing policy. Understanding whether a college requires, prefers, or considers test scores can help you make informed decisions and maximize your recruiting opportunities. Don’t let a missing test score hold you back—prepare, take the test, and give yourself every possible advantage in the recruiting and admissions.

NCAA’s New Transfer Portal Rules:What Athletes Need to Know for 2024-25

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The NCAA has recently implemented significant changes to the transfer portal for Division I football and women’s basketball. These adjustments, particularly the two-window system, are intended to streamline the transfer process while balancing flexibility and stability within college athletics.

The revamped notification-of-transfer process now operates within a 30-day period split into two windows: one in winter and another in spring. For the 2024-25 academic year, the first transfer window will open on December 9, the Monday following the FBS conference championships, and close on December 28. The second window will span April 16-25, providing athletes with another opportunity to enter the portal. By consolidating these periods, the NCAA aims to simplify decisions for athletes while minimizing disruptions for both teams and individual players.

The two-window system also limits the possibility of last-minute transfers that may disrupt team dynamics or require urgent roster adjustments. By setting definitive dates, the NCAA allows for better planning by athletic departments and more thoughtful decision-making by student-athletes.

Overall, these NCAA adjustments balance athletes’ needs for flexibility with institutional stability, promising a more controlled and transparent transfer system that should benefit both current players and prospective recruits.

Off-Season Gains: Bulk Up and Boost Agility for Peak Performance

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Off-Season Training: Bulk Up While Improving Speed and Agility

For high school athletes, the off-season is the perfect time to build strength, bulk up, and enhance speed and agility. A well-rounded approach combining strength training, functional drills, and proper nutrition can help achieve these goals.

Start with strength and power training. Incorporate compound lifts like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses to build muscle. Add explosive movements such as power cleans and box jumps to improve power. Pair this with speed drills like resisted sprints and sled pushes to translate strength gains into speed.

A high-calorie diet rich in lean protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats fuels muscle growth. Consuming 4–6 meals daily ensures consistent energy for workouts.

Don’t forget rest promotes recovery so get plenty of it. Aim to get at least 8 hours of sleep every night. 

Finally, integrate hybrid training. Combine sprint intervals, cone drills, and lifting sessions to enhance agility and strength. Include recovery methods like dynamic stretching or yoga to maintain mobility.

By following this regimen, athletes can bulk up and dominate on the field when the season begins.

College Athletic Scholarships By the Numbers 

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Here’s an overview of athletic scholarships available across NCAA Division I, Division II, and Division III:

Division I

  • Sports Sponsored: Division I schools offer the most scholarships due to the larger athletic budgets and higher revenue sports like football and basketball.
  • Athletic Scholarships: Approximately 138,500 full or partial athletic scholarships are available in Division I.

Division II

  • Athletic Scholarships: Approximately 36,500 scholarships are awarded in Division II.
  • Sports Sponsored: While scholarships are fewer compared to Division I, athletes often receive partial scholarships combined with academic aid or need-based grants.

Division III

  • Athletic Scholarships: None (officially).
  • Key Notes:
    • Division III schools do not offer athletic scholarships, but athletes often receive substantial financial aid packages, including academic scholarships, grants, and need-based aid.
    • Many Division III athletes receive support comparable to what is offered in scholarship-granting divisions.

Key Notes:

  • Headcount sports (e.g., football, basketball, women’s gymnastics, tennis, and volleyball) provide full scholarships.
  • Equivalency sports (e.g., baseball, track and field, soccer) allow coaches to divide scholarships among multiple athletes.
  • All sports in Division II are considered equivalency sports, meaning scholarships are often split among team members.
  • Division III schools do not offer athletic scholarships, but athletes often receive substantial financial aid packages, including academic scholarships, grants, and need-based aid.
  • Many Division III athletes receive support comparable to what is offered in scholarship-granting divisions.

 

Goal Setting for Student-Athletes

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Goal Setting for Student-Athletes

Goal setting is a powerful tool for student-athletes to achieve success, both on and off the field. By setting clear objectives and measuring progress, athletes can build discipline, focus, and confidence. Here are four essential steps to effective goal setting:

1. Set Your Goal

Define what you want to accomplish. Your goal should be specific, measurable, and realistic. For example, instead of saying, “I want to be a better hitter,” set a goal like, “I want to increase my batting average by 20 points this season.” Clarity provides direction and motivation.

2. Write Action Steps

Break your goal into actionable steps. If your goal is to improve strength, your action steps might include committing to a 4-day workout plan, maintaining a protein-rich diet, and incorporating recovery techniques like stretching and hydration. Writing these steps down makes your goal tangible and creates a roadmap to success.

3. Track Progress

Consistently monitor your efforts and results. Keep a journal or use an app to log workouts, practice times, or game statistics. Tracking progress keeps you accountable and helps you adjust your plan when needed.

4. Celebrate Success

Reaching your goal is the ultimate reward. Reflect on your journey, recognize your growth, and set new challenges. Success fuels motivation and confidence for future endeavors.

Effective goal setting isn’t just about reaching the finish line—it’s about building habits that lead to continuous improvement. Start today!

“The Winning Edge: Why Student Athletes Benefit from Working with a Recruiting Coach”

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Photo by Drew Beamer on Unsplash

Using a coach to help student athletes through the recruiting process can offer several benefits:

  1. Expertise and Experience: Coaches who specialize in college recruiting have extensive knowledge and experience in navigating the complex process. They understand the intricacies of the system, know what college coaches are looking for, and can provide valuable insights and advice to student athletes. They stay up-to-date with the latest trends, rules, and regulations, which can give athletes a competitive edge.
  2. Personalized Guidance: A coach can provide individualized guidance tailored to the specific needs and goals of the student athlete. They can assess the athlete’s abilities, strengths, and areas for improvement, and develop a personalized plan to maximize their chances of being recruited. This includes creating a targeted list of prospective colleges, helping with the creation of an impressive athletic resume, and offering guidance on contacting coaches and attending showcases or tournaments.
  3. Increased Exposure: Coaches have established networks and connections within the college sports community. They often have relationships with college coaches and scouts, which can lead to increased exposure for student athletes. Coaches can advocate for their athletes, make introductions, and help them get noticed by college programs that align with their interests and abilities.
  4. Time Management: The recruiting process can be time-consuming and overwhelming for student athletes, especially when combined with their academic and training commitments. A coach can help streamline the process, saving athletes valuable time and energy. They can handle administrative tasks, such as organizing communications, scheduling visits, and managing deadlines, allowing athletes to focus on their studies and training.
  5. Confidence and Emotional Support: The recruiting process can be stressful and emotionally draining. A coach can provide much-needed support and reassurance, helping student athletes navigate the ups and downs of the journey. They can offer guidance on handling rejections or setbacks, maintaining a positive mindset, and staying motivated throughout the process.
  6. Objective Evaluation: Coaches can provide objective assessments of an athlete’s skills and potential, helping them understand their current level and identifying areas for improvement. This feedback is invaluable in setting realistic goals and developing a plan to enhance performance. Coaches can also help athletes make informed decisions about potential college offers, weighing factors such as academic fit, athletic opportunities, and long-term career prospects.

Overall, using a coach during the recruiting process can enhance a student athlete’s chances of finding the right college fit and securing a scholarship or roster spot. It provides them with expert guidance, personalized support, and increased exposure, ultimately maximizing their opportunities for success both on and off the field.

Recruiting after September 1 : the contact rules have changed

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There is some crucial information to know about the recent recruitment period. It is important to realize that September 1 marks the beginning of the contact period. College coaches can now send Junior and Senior college prospects a lot more communication.

Here are some forms of communication that can take place, however the most common are:

  • Weekly phone calls from college coaches (one per week)
  • Personal correspondence from college coaches via text, phone or email
  • High school campus visit (only one)
  • Verbal Scholarship Offers
  • Invitations for official college campus visits
  • Recruiting materials such as college brochures and letters

Athletes who experience this level of communication can be sure that it is a favorable indicator of interest.

However, athletes not getting any communication should start being proactive immediately. There is an old but true phase, “if you keep doing what you’re doing, you will keep getting what you”re getting.” If the results you have are not what you expected then it’s time to make a change.

Student athletes and supportive parents should consider contacting a reputable and credible recruiting resource like PrepStar to to learn how to increase exposure and open recruiting communication with college coaches.

Have questions? Need help?  Contact me to set up a time to talk (get free advise!) or use the comment section below.

Recruiting myths about the quiet period 

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Recruiting becomes hot as August begins, just as summer begins to cool down. However, before it starts to boil, there is a brief pause in recruiting. That pause is known as the Quiet Period.

There are many myths and misconceptions about the Quiet Period, so this article will clear up five of them. 

Photo by Lucas Andrade at Unsplash

Myth #1: That quiet period means absolute silence. Most parents and athletes think that this mean coaches can’t talk to prospective student athletes. True, NCAA communication rules are restricted during the quiet period. But in the end, colleges coaches are permitted to communicate with prospective student athletes during the quiet period.

Myth #2: Athletes can’t contact coaches. Not true. According to the NCAA recruiting guidelines, prospective student athletes can contact college coaches beginning on the first day of freshman year. Additionally, student-athletes are permitted to contact coaches at any time during the recruiting process.

Myth #3: College Coaches don’t recruit during the quiet period. False, coaches recruit year round. Just look at all the offers posted on social media! So, since college coaches continue to recruit during the quiet period athletes need both communication and recruiting exposure year around

Myth #4: On campus invites during the Quiet Period are money grabs. Not necessarily. Some invites are in fact money grabs so it’s up to the athlete and parents to learn the difference. The NCAA rules state contact with prospective student athletes is permissible on the college campus. So, how else can coaches get athletes on campus but to invite them to a prospect camp? 

Myth #5: College coaches can’t make offers during the quiet period. Again, the quiet period does not mean dead silence. Instead, the quiet period regulates communication between college coaches and prospective student athletes. During the quiet period coaches can and do make scholarship offers. 

The origin of these myths and misconceptions is from athletes and parents being unfamiliar with the recruiting process. Information is pieced together from bits and pieces heard from other players and parents. It’s similar to trying to put together a jumbled puzzle, but missing several key pieces. It doesn’t matter how much effort you put in, the end result will be an incomplete picture. Don’t rely on rumors and hearsay from other parents. Become educated about the recruiting process or find someone who is.