The Recruiting Roadmap

The biggest mistake families make in the recruiting process is starting too late — or starting too early in the wrong ways. THE RECRUITING TIMELINE BY LEVEL D1 (Power Five and Major Programs): - Serious evaluation begins in 9th–10th grade for most sports - Official visits cannot happen until senior year (in most sports) - Early commitments (verbal, non-binding) happen as early as 8th grade in some sports - This is the exception, not the rule D1 (Mid-Major and Lower): - Evaluation typically begins in 10th–11th grade - More flexibility in the timeline - Coaches are often more accessible than Power Five programs D2: - Evaluation typically begins in 11th grade - Smaller recruiting budgets mean less scouting; athletes must be more proactive - Strong academic profiles matter significantly D3: - No athletic scholarships (academic and need-based aid only) - Coaches have more flexibility in the timeline - Academic fit is as important as athletic fit JUCO (Junior College): - Recruiting can happen at any point, including after high school graduation - A viable pathway for athletes who weren't recruited out of high school - Two-year programs that can lead to D1/D2 transfers NAIA: - Athletic scholarships available - Less competitive recruiting process than NCAA - Strong option for athletes who want to compete and receive aid WHAT TO DO IN MIDDLE SCHOOL - Play multiple sports - Focus on grades — a 3.0+ GPA opens doors; a 2.0 closes them - Don't specialize yet - Don't pay for recruiting services