Post by Admin on Dec 13, 2012 22:01:34 GMT -5
Recruiting Tips
Start your decision-making process during your junior year in high school, but also start your contacts during your Freshman and Sophomore Years. Too many kids think that they should wait until they are Juniors or even Seniors to start writing, but that is much too late. In this day and age of early verbal commitments, kids need to get on the college radar sooner.
EARLY VERBALS: This is an extremely controversial topic. I have talked to many different people about this topic. Many college coaches will tell you that they DON'T like the process, but feel compelled to jump in with everyone else when it comes to competing for top players. The main word here for athletes and their parents is BE CAREFUL.
A verbal commitment is just what it says. While schools and coaches will honor these commitments, there are times when things can happen. Make sure your daughter is 100 percent sure she wants to attend that school and play for that coach. Some of these kids are as young as 14 when they make these decisions. Kids do change.
Make sure the coach will be there when your daughter gets there ( difficult to predict if it is a new coach or a coach who has not been there long.) Also, don't let your daughter fall into the trap of "cruising" once she has verballed. A coach can and will change his/her mind and pull a verbal if they feel your daughter is not continuing to improve or if her skills decline.
Remember, the verbal game is about honor and honesty. Most coaches will not offer if they do not intend to honor the verbal. But, it does happen....
Which showcases should my daughter's team attend?
There are so many showcases and so many teams, it is confusing sometimes for a parent to tell which ones their daughter's team should attend. There are several things that a showcase should have:
1. A track record. Has the tournament been around for a while?
Do quality teams from all over the country attend? Newer tournaments can be good, but it make take years for them to get good college coach attendance.
2. Is this showcase during a good recruiting window?
If a showcase is the FALL, there are restrictions on the time periods in which college coaches can attend. Make sure that the showcase you attend will be in the recruiting window. Some of the showcases can only allow D2 and D3 college coaches in. There is nothing wrong with that, because your daughter may get a good offer from one of these schools.
3. Can get a list of schools who may or have attended in the past?
Your daughter needs to make sure college coaches know she is there. A list may help her narrow her focus.
4.Offers good competition in a lot of games.
Look at the teams that have been there in the past. Are they good teams? College coaches won't attend if the teams in attendance are not quality teams. Also, how many games are your guaranteed? Look for a guarantee of a lot of games so coaches have many opportunities to come see your daughter.
5. Your team playing at the main complex.
A good showcase is no good if your team is going to play in some out of the way complex while other teams will be playing at the main complex. Make sure your team is scheduled in a complex with many fields.
RECRUITING CAMPS:
There are many excellent recruiting camps. Be careful which ones you attend. Some of them advertise that only the BEST players get in, almost to the point of OVER SELLING the talent of their participants. While the players who attend are good, college coaches will tell you that some of these way overstate the quality of athlete who attends and that some of them get in based on who they know, not how good they are. Some of them are selling you on a recruiting camp so that later on you will sign up for a recruiting service or an expensive trip overseas. Take it for what it is and keep your eyes open.
Even if the camp is as good as it is advertised, your daughter needs to work hard to catch the eye of a college coach.
NFCA - These camps are well run and very highly regarded by college coaches. Girls in these camps show their skills as well as participate in SPARQ Testing. SPARQ testing is a way that athletes can show their physical abilities. They run, jump, throw for speed and distance. They are timed and measured in a fair, consistent way. Many college coaches will attend these because they can get a good look at the basic skills of participants.
Addidas Futures: While this camp ( which we attended in Pennsylvania) was not as well organized as NFCA ( too much standing around time), it had many college coaches in attendance. And, they do offer a recruiting website and service for a fee. However, you can try out the service once you sign up. That way you know if any coaches are going to your daughter's site. They will also do video of your daughter's camp performance. Frankly, some of the video of my daughter was dark and fuzzy, but some of it was good. Of course, that is another fee but it was no unreasonable. If your daughter finishes in the top 100 of this camp, she can attend a top 100 camp in Utah in August.
You can also attend college camps for schools that you may be interested in. This is a great way to get coaches to see your daughter, work with her and talk to her.
For SPECIFIC recruiting information and regulations, go to the NCAA website.
WHAT DO YOU WANT? There are many opportunities for softball athletes. However, you need to be realistic with your expectations. There are VERY FEW fully funded scholarships at any NCAA level. However, many schools can put together an academic and athletic package. THEREFORE, GRADES ARE IMPORTANT!
Different possibilities:
NCAA:
Division I
Division II
Division III ( no athletic scholarships allowed)
NAIA
Junior College
Great Resource: YOU NEED THIS BOOK...Kathy Aradi's Preparing to Play Softball at the College Level. This book is very well written, easy to read, and has great information!
Great Book: The Making of a Student Athlete by David Galehouse and Ray Lauenstein. This book is available at www.athletesadvisor.com. There are a lot of articles on this site.
Recruiting Services: Generally, I don't recommend these. However, I did find a good resource of information. This website sells a product that will help you through the recruiting process yourself. I haven't tried it yet, but for a little over $100 this is a bargain if it is any good. I will keep you updated.
www.recruit-me-now.com
10 Ways to Chase Away a College Coach:
So many people are telling you WHAT to do. HERE is a list of what NOT to do based on what College Coaches have said:
1. Have Poor Grades: Softball is not a revenue producing sport. The number of scholarships at most schools is limited. Coaches need to know that the athletes they sign will be able to handle the load of playing softball and school. If your grades are not good, take the Junior College route and improve them. That will also give you an opportunity to play at the collegiate level and get the needed experience. Plus, Junior Colleges have outstanding programs and will help you get to the collegiate playing level. ( By the way, if your SAT's are not good, improve them. Take a course offered outside of school. Also, try the ACT's and see if you do better.)
2. Wait for the college coach to contact you. No, they are not going to come find you. They don't have the time or money to try to find someone. Contact the coaches in schools in which you are interested. Update them on how you are doing, where you are playing, etc.
3. Have a poor disciplinary record in school/or your community. Yeah, I know they sign basketball and football players with infractions. Do I need to remind you about that non-revenue producing thing? Besides, unless they are a blue chip sure fire D I prospect in football and basketball, no college coach wants to recruit headaches. If you have already made mistakes, acknowledge them and let coaches know you have changed. Get references to write about this change.
4. Be a DIVA on or off the field. So many college coaches tell me that they watch the athletes on and off the field at tournaments. So, if you throw that tantrum on the field or with your parents, coaches will see that and reconsider whether you are what they want. YES, this does include your interactions with your parents. Besides wanting good athletes, colleges want athletes with personalities that will ENHANCE not DESTROY their team! Have a good team attitude.
5. Use your parents as your personal valet. This sort of goes with #4. Do your parents carry your bag, get your water, or baby you during games? If so, a college coach can expect that you will be a little lost when you get there. Do your own errands.
6. Don't hustle on and off the field. It doesn't matter what the score of the game is, how hot it is, how tired you are... HUSTLE. College softball is not easy. If you don't hustle now, how can a college coach expect that to change? Most coaches will tell you that they would rather have a skilled player with hustle and heart than a player with even higher level skills and little hustle and heart. This means during warm ups as well as games. It also means the dugout. Are you cheering your team on? Are you helping with equipment or are you JUST THERE? You need to stand out. HUSTLE!
7.Procrastinate. Don't call coaches right back or send back questionaires. Wait until the summer of your senior year. While you are waiting, someone else is. Besides, colleges are getting verbal commitments earlier and earlier. You need your information out there in your Freshman year, if only to send an e-mail. They won't recruit someone who doesn't have the time to write or respond. If a coach writes, e-mails or calls you, respond!
8. Lie about your grades and stats. They won't check, right? RIGHT ( that's sarcastic). If you say your GPA is a 3.5, it better be a 3.5 and not a 3.0. Every coach will ask for an official transcript. If you lied, they will find out and you will be eliminated as a prospect immediately. The same goes for pitching speeds, SAT scores, etc. Tell the truth!
9. Bother coaches during tournaments. They are NOT supposed to talk to you and they really want to watch recruits, not talk to you or your parents. Make sure your parents know this. There is nothing worse than an overzealous parent bothering coaches and scaring them away from YOU and YOUR TEAM. If they want to talk to you or their parents, they WILL!
10. Play local, small tournaments. College coaches go to large showcases where they don't have to spend a lot of travel money to see a lot of recruits. Get on a team with a good showcase schedule.
JUNIOR YEAR CHECKLIST:
Involve your parents in your decision-making process.
Decide how close you want to be to your home.
Decide on what level (Division I, II, III) you can compete in college. Ask your high school and summer league coaches for an evaluation of your ability. BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF!!
Write softball coaches. Personalize each letter. College coaches are turned off by form letters.
Return softball questionnaires sent by college coaches as soon as possible. Delay indicates lack of interest.
Make a softball videotape. Many college coaches will request a videotape of your softball skills.
Send high school and summer league softball schedules to college coaches.
Be conscious of your high school grades, the level of courses you take, the correct number of courses and your rank in your class.
Schedule yourself to take the SAT's.
Decide on which colleges have your areas of study or interest. Be aware of "college nights" in your area.
Start your initial-eligibility clearinghouse.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association
6201 College Boulevard
Overland Park, Kansas 66211-2422
913-339-1906
SENIOR YEAR CHECKLIST:
Follow up on your clearinghouse eligibility.
Take or retake your SAT's.
Start collecting college applications. Be aware of deadlines.
Complete and mail applications early. Let coaches know you have applied.
Follow up your contact with college coaches with a phone call or note.
Narrow your choice of colleges to five or six.
Decide on what colleges to visit (remember - you may only make five official (paid) visits. Do not make a decision unless you have visited the campus and met the coach.
TIPS ON RECRUITING
Develop a resume
just as you would if you were looking for a job. Although it's never too late, the ideal time to start putting this together is the summer before your junior year.
Begin with the basics - name,address, telephone number, social security number and school. Then list your athletic and scholastic accomplishments, plus any honors you've received. Add any extracurricular activities in which you've participated at this point.
Do some research
Check the libraries for college reference books, then look to see which schools offer a softball program that suits your needs.
Write interest letters to coaches
To find the coaches names, call the schools' athletic departments. If you can't get a particular name, address the coach by title:
Head Softball Coach
Athletic Department
University Name
City Name, State Zip
Note in each letter that you're interested in the schools athletic and academic program and fill the coach in on your background. Enclose your resume and, if possible, a letter of recommendation from a high school or summer team coach. You'll most likely get a letter back with a questionnaire to fill out.
Make a skills tape
Have a parent or coach videotape you in action. It does not have to be fancy, or done by a professional
WHAT TO ASK DURING RECRUITMENT
ATHLETICS:
What positions will I play on your team??
It's not always obvious.
Most coaches want to be flexible so that you are not disappointed.
Describe the other players competing at the same position.
If there is a former high-school all-American at that position,you may want to take that into consideration.
This will give you clues as to what year you might be a starter.
Can I "redshirt" my first year??
Find out how common it is to redshirt and how that will affect graduation.
Does the school redshirt you if you are injured?
What are the physical requirements each year??
Philosophies of strength and conditioning vary by institution.
You may be required to maintain a certain weight.
How would you best describe your coaching style??
Every coach has a particular style that involves different motivational techniques and discipline.
You need to know if a coach's teaching style does not match your learning style.
What is the game plan?
For team sports, find out what kind of offense and defense is employed.
When does the head coach's contract end??
Don't make any assumptions about how long a coach will be at a school.
If the coach is losing and the contract ends in two years, you may have a new coach.
Describe the preferred, invited and uninvited walk-on situation. How many make it, compete and earn a scholarship??
Different teams treat walk-ons differently.
ACADEMICS:
How good is the department in my major??
Smaller colleges can have very highly rated departments.
A team's reputation is only one variable to consider.
What percentage of players on scholarship graduate in 4 years??
This will tell you about the quality of their commitment to academics.
The team's grade-point average also is a good indicator of the coach's commitment to academics.
Describe the typical class sizes.
At larger schools, classes are likely to be larger and taught by teaching assistants.
Average class size is important to the amount of attention you receive.
Describe in detail your academic support program. For example: Studyhall requirements, tutor availability, staff, class load, faulty cooperation.
This is imperative for marginal students.
Find a college that will take the 3.000 students and help them get a 3.500 GPA.
Describe the typical day for a student-athlete.
This will give you a good indication of how much time is spend in class, practice, studying and traveling.
It also will give you a good indication of what coaches expect.
What are the residence halls like??
Make sure you would feel comfortable in study areas, community bathrooms and laundry facilities.
Number of students in a room and coed dorms are other variable to consider.
Will I be required to live on campus for all five years??
If the answer is yes, ask whether there are exceptions.
Apartment living may be better than dorm living.
FINANCIAL AID:
How much financial aid is available for summer school??
There is no guarantee. Get a firm commitment.
You may need to lighten your normal load and go to summer school in order to graduate in four years. You can take graduate courses and maintain your eligibility.
What are the details of financial aid at your institution??
What does my scholarship cover??
What can I receive in addition to the Scholarship and how do I get more aid??
How long does my scholarship last??
Most people think a "full ride" is good for four years.
Financial aid is available on a one-year renewable basis.
If I'm injured, what happens to my financial aid??
A grant-in-aid is not guaranteed past a one-year period even for injuries.
It is important to know if a school has a commitment to assist student-athletes for more than a year after they have been injured.
What are my opportunities for employment while I'm a student??
Find out if you can be employed in-season, out-of-season or during vacation periods:
NCAA rules prohibit you from earning more than the value of a full scholarship during the academic year.
INITIAL-ELIGIBILITY CLEARINGHOUSE
Why do I need to register and be certified??
If you intend to participate in Division I or II athletics as a freshman in college, you must be registered with and be certified as eligible by the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse. Please note that initial-eligibility certification pertains only to whether you meet the NCAA requirements for participation in Division I athletics and has no bearing on your admission to a particular Division I or II institution.
When should I register??
You should register with the clearinghouse whenever you decide you would like to participate in athletics as a college freshman. It's generally best to register anytime before participation. If you register late you may face delays that will prevent you from practicing and competing.
How do I register??
You will need to obtain registration materials from your high-school guidance counselor. These materials include a student-release form and a red brochure titled, "Making Sure You Are Eligible to Participate in College Sports". Fill out the student-release form completely and mail the top (white) copy of the form to the clearinghouse along with $18 fee. Give the pink and yellow copies of the student-release form to your high school to forward your transcript to the clearinghouse. The high school will keep the pink cop of the form for its files.
What if I have attended more than one high school??
If you have attended multiple high schools since ninth grade, each school will need to send your official transcripts to the clearinghouse. You should give the pink and yellow copies of the student-release form to the counselor at the high school from which you will be graduating. You also will need to make copies of this form and send them to the counselors at the other schools that you have attended.
Are standardized test scores required??
Qualifying test scores are required for participation at both Division I & II colleges. If you intend to participate at either a Division I or II school, the test scores may be taken from you official high-school transcript.
VIDEOTAPING YOUR SOFTBALL SKILLS
We want to see everything you are capable of doing. If you play several positions, show us footage of different skills. Please keep in mind, though that we receive hundreds of videotapes each season and simply don't have time to view excess and unneeded footage. We have given some guidelines as to what we want to see and how many repetitions we'd like to see. In what order you perform the skills makes no difference.
We recommend using the zoom feature rather than moving in a position you may disturb the fielder or hitter.
The entire tape should only be approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
HITTING:
View from beyond opposite batters box, facing the batter as they are in their stance, close view. Full swings in this segment, if you have full swings from both right and left side, please show both.
BUNTING:
Sac Bunts: View from pitching circle, left and right sides, if applicable.
Bunt for Hit: View from pitching circle, left and right sides, if applicable.
Drag Bunt: View from pitching circle, left and right sides, if applicable. Slap Bunt: View from beyond opposite batters box, left and right side, if applicable.
THROWING AND CATCHING: (All Positions)
Fielding ground balls, some directly at you, some to your right and left. Balls to your right and left should be approximately 15 to 20 feet each way. Show the throw to a base. (Note) Always have an angle to show the throw. DO NOT follow the ball with the camera.
CATCHERS: (Full Equipment)
Block ball in dirt, some right at you, some to show lateral movement.
Field bunts and throw to all bases.
Pickoff, show throws to 1st and 3rd base.
Steals, show throw to 2nd and 3rd base, with the fielder on the move to cover the base.
CORNERS:
Field bunts, throw to 1st, 2nd and 3rd bases.
At 1st base, taking throws in the dirt.
At 3rd base, taking throws from the outfield, making a tag.
MIDDLE INFIELDERS:
Double play, pivot and footwork.
Double play, feeds.
Shortstop, covering second on a steal.
Second, covering first on a bunt.
Fly balls overhead, Texas Leaguer.
OUTFIELDERS:
Fielding fly balls, some directly at you, some to your right, left and forward. Show the throw to 2B, 3B and home.
PITCHERS:
Two Angles:
From behind pitcher.
From side of the catcher.
Show 5 to 6 of each pitch you have from each angle.
Fielding grounders and bunts, throwing to all bases.
BASE RUNNING:
Home to first, after you swing.
Home to home, after you swing.
SLIDING:
Stealing 2nd or 3rd:
Show different slides you are capable of doing.
Figure four, slide by and head first.
Here is some advice regarding the recruiting process from Bill Dryden,
longtime pitching coach:
NCAA Stress
Occasionally, a player will begin to stress out when college coaches start burning up the phones and email service, wanting a commitment from the player. I know what a lot of you are thinking;” Why can’t we have that problem?” It affects different kids in different ways, and parents, please remember they are kids. We sometimes lose track of that fact except when they are out at night and we’re wondering if everything is okay and are they ever going to get home. After all, there are only 3 hours and 24 minutes left until their curfew! Where are they? I lose track of it myself when I get caught up in the recruiting process, trying to get that scholarship for that deserving player. I know that the coaches can put a lot of pressure on these kids, telling them they need a decision now, because they have other kids to talk to if this one isn’t interested.
Here is my advice: If a coach makes that statement to you, tell him/her thank you for helping with your decision. You are not interested in his/her school. Believe me, they have no feeling for you as a player or a person.
I know this is happening right now with some of our girls, and it should be a great time in their lives, not a time of worry. Let’s try to put this thing in some perspective. You have ideas about where you would like to go. Some want to get as far away as possible. Some want to stay local. Some don’t care. I have one pitcher who has made a visit, liked the school and the people, but I guarantee she is concerned about the expense of the school. If they want her they will make the offer count. When I went through this process with my son first, and later my daughter, I told the coaches what I had always told the kids. If they want to go to college, get a scholarship because I can’t afford to send them. This is also what I told the coaches when they called. If they didn’t have the money, I didn’t either. One school sent an assistant to watch my son play ball, and as soon as the game was offer, he came up and said he was authorized to offer half a scholarship. I told him there was no way. Within 3 days the head coach called offering a full ride. Funny, how they found the money. The buzzword here is “I”. I talked to the coaches first. I made them aware of what they needed before they talked to either BJ or Ashley. This relieved some of the pressure. Now, they had only to decide if they liked the school and coach. So far in this fall season, I have been talked to about almost every kid on the team by college coaches, and the seniors will feel the pressure this whole school year. The juniors won’t feel much until July.
Parents, try to help take some of the pressure off by screening the coach calls. You have an idea of what you can afford and you can let the coach know. Take that much pressure off of your daughter. Tell that coach that you have heard about coaches pressuring for a decision and you do not want your kid to have to make her decision until all of the options have been weighed. Tell them no decision will be made until all of her visits are complete. Treat this as you would any business deal. Ask the questions. Your daughter should only be concerned with a good fit for her at the school. Let her enjoy the process while you deal with the pressure. Make sure she understands that this is her life. She needs only to be happy with her choice. She doesn’t have to worry about saying no to one coach and yes to another. After all, she has no problem saying no to you, does she? Tell her when she makes a decision that you will handle the other coaches. Enjoy the recruiting process. We loved it. They paid for us to get to the school and back home. They paid our lodging, meals, and entertainment. We made the most of the process. This is the fun part. Look at it from that perspective and don’t worry about the coaches. Girls, realize this. The coach has a job to do. He is paid to produce a winning team. That is a concept you are not used to because the travel ball coaches are volunteers. The college coach can be fired for lack of production. Sometimes this spills over when they are recruiting and they are only concerned about producing a winner. You are the commodity they need. It is a great feeling to be wanted, but their problem is not your problem. If they have to sign someone to help them, that is what they are paid to do. You are not. Their responsibility rests with them no matter what they may say to you. They chose the job. They want it. They need to accept the responsibility. Now, it isn’t your job. It isn’t your responsibility. You only need to enjoy the process.
Next is the problem of feeling the need to perform when the coaches are watching. Why do you think you were selected to be on a showcase team? Do you think the coaches said, “she’s pretty good. If we put her in front of a tribe of carnivorous college coaches she’ll probably perform better.” You were chosen because of the attributes you bring to the team, not for something super human that miraculously appears when the coaches flock around. Relax and play your game. If you pitch, don’t try to throw 10 mph faster than you usually throw. If you are a shortstop, you don’t have to play first base and center field. Do what you normally do, and you will be fine. Remember to PLAY the game. The key words are play and game. How much simpler can it be?
Start your decision-making process during your junior year in high school, but also start your contacts during your Freshman and Sophomore Years. Too many kids think that they should wait until they are Juniors or even Seniors to start writing, but that is much too late. In this day and age of early verbal commitments, kids need to get on the college radar sooner.
EARLY VERBALS: This is an extremely controversial topic. I have talked to many different people about this topic. Many college coaches will tell you that they DON'T like the process, but feel compelled to jump in with everyone else when it comes to competing for top players. The main word here for athletes and their parents is BE CAREFUL.
A verbal commitment is just what it says. While schools and coaches will honor these commitments, there are times when things can happen. Make sure your daughter is 100 percent sure she wants to attend that school and play for that coach. Some of these kids are as young as 14 when they make these decisions. Kids do change.
Make sure the coach will be there when your daughter gets there ( difficult to predict if it is a new coach or a coach who has not been there long.) Also, don't let your daughter fall into the trap of "cruising" once she has verballed. A coach can and will change his/her mind and pull a verbal if they feel your daughter is not continuing to improve or if her skills decline.
Remember, the verbal game is about honor and honesty. Most coaches will not offer if they do not intend to honor the verbal. But, it does happen....
Which showcases should my daughter's team attend?
There are so many showcases and so many teams, it is confusing sometimes for a parent to tell which ones their daughter's team should attend. There are several things that a showcase should have:
1. A track record. Has the tournament been around for a while?
Do quality teams from all over the country attend? Newer tournaments can be good, but it make take years for them to get good college coach attendance.
2. Is this showcase during a good recruiting window?
If a showcase is the FALL, there are restrictions on the time periods in which college coaches can attend. Make sure that the showcase you attend will be in the recruiting window. Some of the showcases can only allow D2 and D3 college coaches in. There is nothing wrong with that, because your daughter may get a good offer from one of these schools.
3. Can get a list of schools who may or have attended in the past?
Your daughter needs to make sure college coaches know she is there. A list may help her narrow her focus.
4.Offers good competition in a lot of games.
Look at the teams that have been there in the past. Are they good teams? College coaches won't attend if the teams in attendance are not quality teams. Also, how many games are your guaranteed? Look for a guarantee of a lot of games so coaches have many opportunities to come see your daughter.
5. Your team playing at the main complex.
A good showcase is no good if your team is going to play in some out of the way complex while other teams will be playing at the main complex. Make sure your team is scheduled in a complex with many fields.
RECRUITING CAMPS:
There are many excellent recruiting camps. Be careful which ones you attend. Some of them advertise that only the BEST players get in, almost to the point of OVER SELLING the talent of their participants. While the players who attend are good, college coaches will tell you that some of these way overstate the quality of athlete who attends and that some of them get in based on who they know, not how good they are. Some of them are selling you on a recruiting camp so that later on you will sign up for a recruiting service or an expensive trip overseas. Take it for what it is and keep your eyes open.
Even if the camp is as good as it is advertised, your daughter needs to work hard to catch the eye of a college coach.
NFCA - These camps are well run and very highly regarded by college coaches. Girls in these camps show their skills as well as participate in SPARQ Testing. SPARQ testing is a way that athletes can show their physical abilities. They run, jump, throw for speed and distance. They are timed and measured in a fair, consistent way. Many college coaches will attend these because they can get a good look at the basic skills of participants.
Addidas Futures: While this camp ( which we attended in Pennsylvania) was not as well organized as NFCA ( too much standing around time), it had many college coaches in attendance. And, they do offer a recruiting website and service for a fee. However, you can try out the service once you sign up. That way you know if any coaches are going to your daughter's site. They will also do video of your daughter's camp performance. Frankly, some of the video of my daughter was dark and fuzzy, but some of it was good. Of course, that is another fee but it was no unreasonable. If your daughter finishes in the top 100 of this camp, she can attend a top 100 camp in Utah in August.
You can also attend college camps for schools that you may be interested in. This is a great way to get coaches to see your daughter, work with her and talk to her.
For SPECIFIC recruiting information and regulations, go to the NCAA website.
WHAT DO YOU WANT? There are many opportunities for softball athletes. However, you need to be realistic with your expectations. There are VERY FEW fully funded scholarships at any NCAA level. However, many schools can put together an academic and athletic package. THEREFORE, GRADES ARE IMPORTANT!
Different possibilities:
NCAA:
Division I
Division II
Division III ( no athletic scholarships allowed)
NAIA
Junior College
Great Resource: YOU NEED THIS BOOK...Kathy Aradi's Preparing to Play Softball at the College Level. This book is very well written, easy to read, and has great information!
Great Book: The Making of a Student Athlete by David Galehouse and Ray Lauenstein. This book is available at www.athletesadvisor.com. There are a lot of articles on this site.
Recruiting Services: Generally, I don't recommend these. However, I did find a good resource of information. This website sells a product that will help you through the recruiting process yourself. I haven't tried it yet, but for a little over $100 this is a bargain if it is any good. I will keep you updated.
www.recruit-me-now.com
10 Ways to Chase Away a College Coach:
So many people are telling you WHAT to do. HERE is a list of what NOT to do based on what College Coaches have said:
1. Have Poor Grades: Softball is not a revenue producing sport. The number of scholarships at most schools is limited. Coaches need to know that the athletes they sign will be able to handle the load of playing softball and school. If your grades are not good, take the Junior College route and improve them. That will also give you an opportunity to play at the collegiate level and get the needed experience. Plus, Junior Colleges have outstanding programs and will help you get to the collegiate playing level. ( By the way, if your SAT's are not good, improve them. Take a course offered outside of school. Also, try the ACT's and see if you do better.)
2. Wait for the college coach to contact you. No, they are not going to come find you. They don't have the time or money to try to find someone. Contact the coaches in schools in which you are interested. Update them on how you are doing, where you are playing, etc.
3. Have a poor disciplinary record in school/or your community. Yeah, I know they sign basketball and football players with infractions. Do I need to remind you about that non-revenue producing thing? Besides, unless they are a blue chip sure fire D I prospect in football and basketball, no college coach wants to recruit headaches. If you have already made mistakes, acknowledge them and let coaches know you have changed. Get references to write about this change.
4. Be a DIVA on or off the field. So many college coaches tell me that they watch the athletes on and off the field at tournaments. So, if you throw that tantrum on the field or with your parents, coaches will see that and reconsider whether you are what they want. YES, this does include your interactions with your parents. Besides wanting good athletes, colleges want athletes with personalities that will ENHANCE not DESTROY their team! Have a good team attitude.
5. Use your parents as your personal valet. This sort of goes with #4. Do your parents carry your bag, get your water, or baby you during games? If so, a college coach can expect that you will be a little lost when you get there. Do your own errands.
6. Don't hustle on and off the field. It doesn't matter what the score of the game is, how hot it is, how tired you are... HUSTLE. College softball is not easy. If you don't hustle now, how can a college coach expect that to change? Most coaches will tell you that they would rather have a skilled player with hustle and heart than a player with even higher level skills and little hustle and heart. This means during warm ups as well as games. It also means the dugout. Are you cheering your team on? Are you helping with equipment or are you JUST THERE? You need to stand out. HUSTLE!
7.Procrastinate. Don't call coaches right back or send back questionaires. Wait until the summer of your senior year. While you are waiting, someone else is. Besides, colleges are getting verbal commitments earlier and earlier. You need your information out there in your Freshman year, if only to send an e-mail. They won't recruit someone who doesn't have the time to write or respond. If a coach writes, e-mails or calls you, respond!
8. Lie about your grades and stats. They won't check, right? RIGHT ( that's sarcastic). If you say your GPA is a 3.5, it better be a 3.5 and not a 3.0. Every coach will ask for an official transcript. If you lied, they will find out and you will be eliminated as a prospect immediately. The same goes for pitching speeds, SAT scores, etc. Tell the truth!
9. Bother coaches during tournaments. They are NOT supposed to talk to you and they really want to watch recruits, not talk to you or your parents. Make sure your parents know this. There is nothing worse than an overzealous parent bothering coaches and scaring them away from YOU and YOUR TEAM. If they want to talk to you or their parents, they WILL!
10. Play local, small tournaments. College coaches go to large showcases where they don't have to spend a lot of travel money to see a lot of recruits. Get on a team with a good showcase schedule.
JUNIOR YEAR CHECKLIST:
Involve your parents in your decision-making process.
Decide how close you want to be to your home.
Decide on what level (Division I, II, III) you can compete in college. Ask your high school and summer league coaches for an evaluation of your ability. BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF!!
Write softball coaches. Personalize each letter. College coaches are turned off by form letters.
Return softball questionnaires sent by college coaches as soon as possible. Delay indicates lack of interest.
Make a softball videotape. Many college coaches will request a videotape of your softball skills.
Send high school and summer league softball schedules to college coaches.
Be conscious of your high school grades, the level of courses you take, the correct number of courses and your rank in your class.
Schedule yourself to take the SAT's.
Decide on which colleges have your areas of study or interest. Be aware of "college nights" in your area.
Start your initial-eligibility clearinghouse.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association
6201 College Boulevard
Overland Park, Kansas 66211-2422
913-339-1906
SENIOR YEAR CHECKLIST:
Follow up on your clearinghouse eligibility.
Take or retake your SAT's.
Start collecting college applications. Be aware of deadlines.
Complete and mail applications early. Let coaches know you have applied.
Follow up your contact with college coaches with a phone call or note.
Narrow your choice of colleges to five or six.
Decide on what colleges to visit (remember - you may only make five official (paid) visits. Do not make a decision unless you have visited the campus and met the coach.
TIPS ON RECRUITING
Develop a resume
just as you would if you were looking for a job. Although it's never too late, the ideal time to start putting this together is the summer before your junior year.
Begin with the basics - name,address, telephone number, social security number and school. Then list your athletic and scholastic accomplishments, plus any honors you've received. Add any extracurricular activities in which you've participated at this point.
Do some research
Check the libraries for college reference books, then look to see which schools offer a softball program that suits your needs.
Write interest letters to coaches
To find the coaches names, call the schools' athletic departments. If you can't get a particular name, address the coach by title:
Head Softball Coach
Athletic Department
University Name
City Name, State Zip
Note in each letter that you're interested in the schools athletic and academic program and fill the coach in on your background. Enclose your resume and, if possible, a letter of recommendation from a high school or summer team coach. You'll most likely get a letter back with a questionnaire to fill out.
Make a skills tape
Have a parent or coach videotape you in action. It does not have to be fancy, or done by a professional
WHAT TO ASK DURING RECRUITMENT
ATHLETICS:
What positions will I play on your team??
It's not always obvious.
Most coaches want to be flexible so that you are not disappointed.
Describe the other players competing at the same position.
If there is a former high-school all-American at that position,you may want to take that into consideration.
This will give you clues as to what year you might be a starter.
Can I "redshirt" my first year??
Find out how common it is to redshirt and how that will affect graduation.
Does the school redshirt you if you are injured?
What are the physical requirements each year??
Philosophies of strength and conditioning vary by institution.
You may be required to maintain a certain weight.
How would you best describe your coaching style??
Every coach has a particular style that involves different motivational techniques and discipline.
You need to know if a coach's teaching style does not match your learning style.
What is the game plan?
For team sports, find out what kind of offense and defense is employed.
When does the head coach's contract end??
Don't make any assumptions about how long a coach will be at a school.
If the coach is losing and the contract ends in two years, you may have a new coach.
Describe the preferred, invited and uninvited walk-on situation. How many make it, compete and earn a scholarship??
Different teams treat walk-ons differently.
ACADEMICS:
How good is the department in my major??
Smaller colleges can have very highly rated departments.
A team's reputation is only one variable to consider.
What percentage of players on scholarship graduate in 4 years??
This will tell you about the quality of their commitment to academics.
The team's grade-point average also is a good indicator of the coach's commitment to academics.
Describe the typical class sizes.
At larger schools, classes are likely to be larger and taught by teaching assistants.
Average class size is important to the amount of attention you receive.
Describe in detail your academic support program. For example: Studyhall requirements, tutor availability, staff, class load, faulty cooperation.
This is imperative for marginal students.
Find a college that will take the 3.000 students and help them get a 3.500 GPA.
Describe the typical day for a student-athlete.
This will give you a good indication of how much time is spend in class, practice, studying and traveling.
It also will give you a good indication of what coaches expect.
What are the residence halls like??
Make sure you would feel comfortable in study areas, community bathrooms and laundry facilities.
Number of students in a room and coed dorms are other variable to consider.
Will I be required to live on campus for all five years??
If the answer is yes, ask whether there are exceptions.
Apartment living may be better than dorm living.
FINANCIAL AID:
How much financial aid is available for summer school??
There is no guarantee. Get a firm commitment.
You may need to lighten your normal load and go to summer school in order to graduate in four years. You can take graduate courses and maintain your eligibility.
What are the details of financial aid at your institution??
What does my scholarship cover??
What can I receive in addition to the Scholarship and how do I get more aid??
How long does my scholarship last??
Most people think a "full ride" is good for four years.
Financial aid is available on a one-year renewable basis.
If I'm injured, what happens to my financial aid??
A grant-in-aid is not guaranteed past a one-year period even for injuries.
It is important to know if a school has a commitment to assist student-athletes for more than a year after they have been injured.
What are my opportunities for employment while I'm a student??
Find out if you can be employed in-season, out-of-season or during vacation periods:
NCAA rules prohibit you from earning more than the value of a full scholarship during the academic year.
INITIAL-ELIGIBILITY CLEARINGHOUSE
Why do I need to register and be certified??
If you intend to participate in Division I or II athletics as a freshman in college, you must be registered with and be certified as eligible by the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse. Please note that initial-eligibility certification pertains only to whether you meet the NCAA requirements for participation in Division I athletics and has no bearing on your admission to a particular Division I or II institution.
When should I register??
You should register with the clearinghouse whenever you decide you would like to participate in athletics as a college freshman. It's generally best to register anytime before participation. If you register late you may face delays that will prevent you from practicing and competing.
How do I register??
You will need to obtain registration materials from your high-school guidance counselor. These materials include a student-release form and a red brochure titled, "Making Sure You Are Eligible to Participate in College Sports". Fill out the student-release form completely and mail the top (white) copy of the form to the clearinghouse along with $18 fee. Give the pink and yellow copies of the student-release form to your high school to forward your transcript to the clearinghouse. The high school will keep the pink cop of the form for its files.
What if I have attended more than one high school??
If you have attended multiple high schools since ninth grade, each school will need to send your official transcripts to the clearinghouse. You should give the pink and yellow copies of the student-release form to the counselor at the high school from which you will be graduating. You also will need to make copies of this form and send them to the counselors at the other schools that you have attended.
Are standardized test scores required??
Qualifying test scores are required for participation at both Division I & II colleges. If you intend to participate at either a Division I or II school, the test scores may be taken from you official high-school transcript.
VIDEOTAPING YOUR SOFTBALL SKILLS
We want to see everything you are capable of doing. If you play several positions, show us footage of different skills. Please keep in mind, though that we receive hundreds of videotapes each season and simply don't have time to view excess and unneeded footage. We have given some guidelines as to what we want to see and how many repetitions we'd like to see. In what order you perform the skills makes no difference.
We recommend using the zoom feature rather than moving in a position you may disturb the fielder or hitter.
The entire tape should only be approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
HITTING:
View from beyond opposite batters box, facing the batter as they are in their stance, close view. Full swings in this segment, if you have full swings from both right and left side, please show both.
BUNTING:
Sac Bunts: View from pitching circle, left and right sides, if applicable.
Bunt for Hit: View from pitching circle, left and right sides, if applicable.
Drag Bunt: View from pitching circle, left and right sides, if applicable. Slap Bunt: View from beyond opposite batters box, left and right side, if applicable.
THROWING AND CATCHING: (All Positions)
Fielding ground balls, some directly at you, some to your right and left. Balls to your right and left should be approximately 15 to 20 feet each way. Show the throw to a base. (Note) Always have an angle to show the throw. DO NOT follow the ball with the camera.
CATCHERS: (Full Equipment)
Block ball in dirt, some right at you, some to show lateral movement.
Field bunts and throw to all bases.
Pickoff, show throws to 1st and 3rd base.
Steals, show throw to 2nd and 3rd base, with the fielder on the move to cover the base.
CORNERS:
Field bunts, throw to 1st, 2nd and 3rd bases.
At 1st base, taking throws in the dirt.
At 3rd base, taking throws from the outfield, making a tag.
MIDDLE INFIELDERS:
Double play, pivot and footwork.
Double play, feeds.
Shortstop, covering second on a steal.
Second, covering first on a bunt.
Fly balls overhead, Texas Leaguer.
OUTFIELDERS:
Fielding fly balls, some directly at you, some to your right, left and forward. Show the throw to 2B, 3B and home.
PITCHERS:
Two Angles:
From behind pitcher.
From side of the catcher.
Show 5 to 6 of each pitch you have from each angle.
Fielding grounders and bunts, throwing to all bases.
BASE RUNNING:
Home to first, after you swing.
Home to home, after you swing.
SLIDING:
Stealing 2nd or 3rd:
Show different slides you are capable of doing.
Figure four, slide by and head first.
Here is some advice regarding the recruiting process from Bill Dryden,
longtime pitching coach:
NCAA Stress
Occasionally, a player will begin to stress out when college coaches start burning up the phones and email service, wanting a commitment from the player. I know what a lot of you are thinking;” Why can’t we have that problem?” It affects different kids in different ways, and parents, please remember they are kids. We sometimes lose track of that fact except when they are out at night and we’re wondering if everything is okay and are they ever going to get home. After all, there are only 3 hours and 24 minutes left until their curfew! Where are they? I lose track of it myself when I get caught up in the recruiting process, trying to get that scholarship for that deserving player. I know that the coaches can put a lot of pressure on these kids, telling them they need a decision now, because they have other kids to talk to if this one isn’t interested.
Here is my advice: If a coach makes that statement to you, tell him/her thank you for helping with your decision. You are not interested in his/her school. Believe me, they have no feeling for you as a player or a person.
I know this is happening right now with some of our girls, and it should be a great time in their lives, not a time of worry. Let’s try to put this thing in some perspective. You have ideas about where you would like to go. Some want to get as far away as possible. Some want to stay local. Some don’t care. I have one pitcher who has made a visit, liked the school and the people, but I guarantee she is concerned about the expense of the school. If they want her they will make the offer count. When I went through this process with my son first, and later my daughter, I told the coaches what I had always told the kids. If they want to go to college, get a scholarship because I can’t afford to send them. This is also what I told the coaches when they called. If they didn’t have the money, I didn’t either. One school sent an assistant to watch my son play ball, and as soon as the game was offer, he came up and said he was authorized to offer half a scholarship. I told him there was no way. Within 3 days the head coach called offering a full ride. Funny, how they found the money. The buzzword here is “I”. I talked to the coaches first. I made them aware of what they needed before they talked to either BJ or Ashley. This relieved some of the pressure. Now, they had only to decide if they liked the school and coach. So far in this fall season, I have been talked to about almost every kid on the team by college coaches, and the seniors will feel the pressure this whole school year. The juniors won’t feel much until July.
Parents, try to help take some of the pressure off by screening the coach calls. You have an idea of what you can afford and you can let the coach know. Take that much pressure off of your daughter. Tell that coach that you have heard about coaches pressuring for a decision and you do not want your kid to have to make her decision until all of the options have been weighed. Tell them no decision will be made until all of her visits are complete. Treat this as you would any business deal. Ask the questions. Your daughter should only be concerned with a good fit for her at the school. Let her enjoy the process while you deal with the pressure. Make sure she understands that this is her life. She needs only to be happy with her choice. She doesn’t have to worry about saying no to one coach and yes to another. After all, she has no problem saying no to you, does she? Tell her when she makes a decision that you will handle the other coaches. Enjoy the recruiting process. We loved it. They paid for us to get to the school and back home. They paid our lodging, meals, and entertainment. We made the most of the process. This is the fun part. Look at it from that perspective and don’t worry about the coaches. Girls, realize this. The coach has a job to do. He is paid to produce a winning team. That is a concept you are not used to because the travel ball coaches are volunteers. The college coach can be fired for lack of production. Sometimes this spills over when they are recruiting and they are only concerned about producing a winner. You are the commodity they need. It is a great feeling to be wanted, but their problem is not your problem. If they have to sign someone to help them, that is what they are paid to do. You are not. Their responsibility rests with them no matter what they may say to you. They chose the job. They want it. They need to accept the responsibility. Now, it isn’t your job. It isn’t your responsibility. You only need to enjoy the process.
Next is the problem of feeling the need to perform when the coaches are watching. Why do you think you were selected to be on a showcase team? Do you think the coaches said, “she’s pretty good. If we put her in front of a tribe of carnivorous college coaches she’ll probably perform better.” You were chosen because of the attributes you bring to the team, not for something super human that miraculously appears when the coaches flock around. Relax and play your game. If you pitch, don’t try to throw 10 mph faster than you usually throw. If you are a shortstop, you don’t have to play first base and center field. Do what you normally do, and you will be fine. Remember to PLAY the game. The key words are play and game. How much simpler can it be?