Official Visits
Official Recruiting Visits: Making the Most of Your Time on Campus
Official recruiting visits are a critical step for high school athletes considering collegiate sports. These visits, funded by the college, provide an in-depth look at the school’s academics, athletics, and campus culture. With specific rules and expectations, it’s important to approach official visits strategically to make the most of this unique opportunity. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Understand the Rules and Timeline
Official visits are structured with specific regulations and rules per the NCAA. The duration of visits are typically limited to 48 hours on a campus. The eligibility of athletes must meet academic and athletic qualifications to be invited for an official visit. You’re allowed up to five official visits to NCAA Division I schools, with no limit for Division II, III, or NAIA programs. The college covers travel, food, lodging, and entertainment expenses within the rules.
2. Plan Ahead
Preparation is key to maximizing your visits. Make sure to complete any necessary forms to ensure you’ve filled out the required paperwork, such as pre-visit waivers or medical forms which are common. Reach out and communicate with coaches and confirm the itinerary and clarify what to expect during your visit. Try to set goals and identify what you want to learn about the school, team, and program. Take notes so if you take many visits you can recall how you felt afterward when reflecting on your choices.
3. Explore the Campus and Facilities
Take a comprehensive look at the campus environment and see if it is a good fit for you and your personality. Tour athletic facilities and visit training rooms, locker rooms, practice fields, and competition venues. Explore campus resources while checking out dorms, dining halls, libraries, and recreational spaces. Meet with academic advisors and discuss potential majors, class schedules, and academic support systems.
4. Engage with Coaches and Players
Building relationships is a vital part of the visits. Meet the coaches and casually discuss the program’s goals, expectations, and your potential role on the team. Get to know them and be yourself. Spend time with players and stay with team members if possible to experience their routines and dynamics. This can help considerably on your transition process if you decide to go there. Ask candid questions and inquire about team culture, coaching styles, and balancing academics and athletics.
5. Follow Campus Rules and Expectations
Adhere to guidelines to ensure a positive impression. Set behavior standards and be respectful and represent yourself professionally. The temptation to fit in and be and go a little wild usually backfires and many of recruits have blown opportunities by overdoing it. Make sure you check with their social media rules and avoid posting anything that might violate the NCAA’s or school’s policies. Participate and engage fully in scheduled activities and show enthusiasm.
6. Decide Whether to Include Parents
Consider the pros and cons of bringing parents. While parents can provide valuable perspectives and ask questions you might overlook, they are often welcome just make sure they give you space as it is your visit and the team wants to get to know you. Some coaches prefer to meet with athletes individually to assess their decision-making and maturity and level of independence. If parents do attend, discuss beforehand how involved they should be during meetings and activities. Also discuss with your parents that you should do most of the talking.
7. Understand Offers and Negotiations
Official visits often involve discussions about scholarships and commitments. Clarify what’s included, such as tuition, housing, books, and meal plans. Explore potential Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals available through the program and if there is any opportunities for the teams athletes. Understand signing periods, Letters of Intent, or other agreements unique to each school and division.
8. Reflect on Your Experience
After the visit, evaluate your impressions. Review notes and what you liked, and didn’t like, about the school, team, and campus. Compare your visits and assess how the they align with your academic, athletic, and personal goals. Seek input and discuss your thoughts with family, coaches, and trusted mentors.
Final Thoughts
Official visits are a valuable opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of your prospective college and athletic program. By preparing thoroughly, engaging thoughtfully, and reflecting carefully, you can make informed decisions about your future. Remember, this process is about finding the right fit for your academic, athletic, and personal aspirations.