A Parent’s Guide to Unofficial Recruiting Trips
A Parent’s Guide to Unofficial Recruiting Trips:
Unofficial recruiting trips are a great way for parents and student-athletes to explore potential colleges without the formal structure of an official visit. These self-funded trips provide an opportunity to get a genuine feel for a school’s environment, athletic program, and academic offerings. Here’s how parents can make the most of these visits:
1. Plan the Trip
Preparation is key to a productive unofficial visit:
Coordinate Schedules: Choose a time when you can attend a practice, game, or other campus activities.
Research the School: Learn about the athletic program, academic departments, and campus culture beforehand.
Contact Coaches (if possible): Notify the coaching staff of your visit to see if they’re available for a meeting.
2. Explore the Campus
Encourage your athlete to immerse themselves in the college environment:
Take a Tour: Walk around the campus to see dorms, dining halls, libraries, and recreational facilities.
Visit Athletic Facilities: Explore weight rooms, practice fields, and competition venues to evaluate the program’s resources.
Attend a Class: If possible, sit in on an academic class to understand the school’s educational atmosphere.
3. Engage with Coaches and Players
Connecting with the team can provide valuable insights:
Meet the Coaching Staff: If they’re available, discuss their philosophy, goals, and expectations for athletes.
Talk to Players: Encourage your athlete to ask questions about team culture, training schedules, and balancing academics and athletics.
Observe a Practice or Game: Watching the team in action can reveal their dynamics and playing style.
4. Assess Academic Fit
Academics are just as important as athletics: