College Field Hockey FAQ's

College Field Hockey FAQs

1. Am I good enough to play in college?

There are field hockey opportunities for anyone who has the desire to play in college. Whether you are recruited, decide to walk on, or choose to play at the intramural or club level, there are many opportunities to play beyond high school. Researching schools, communicating with coaches, being seen (at National tournaments and/or by video) all play key roles in the college recruiting process. The other key component is getting your information out early. Schools begin recruiting as early as your freshman or sophomore year. In fact, as of January, 2017, most top Division 1 programs have already filled their 2018 roster. Juniors, do not worry - many schools in all Divisions are still looking.

2. How do I begin the recruiting process?

The key to being recruited is to build a resume and to be seen. Here are some suggestions: • Join a club team. There are two clubs in St. Louis:

1. Gateway Field Hockey www.gatewayfieldhockey.com

2. Aim Field Hockey www.aimfieldhockey.com

Both programs are excellent. Because they take teams to tournaments all over the country, club coaches have connections with many college coaches and can help you navigate through the process. Yes, these programs can be expensive but consider it an investment towards possible scholarship opportunities. Even if you choose not to travel to regional and national competitions, you can still play in local tournaments. Club participation will also give you a chance to be coached by top coaches and play with our area’s elite players, thus improving your skills.

    • Begin your search. There are many websites that list all field hockey schools. Start making a list. List the coaches’ name and email address. Now is not the time to be overly selective - you are better having an initial list of 20+ schools. As you begin to learn more about each school, you will begin to narrow down your list.
    • By the fall of your senior year, create a profile page on the NCAA Eligibility Center: www.ncaa.org
      • If you are playing Division 3 or are undecided, just create the free profile. If you decide to go D1 or D2, you will pay $80 to create a certification account. You can have ACT/SAT scores submitted to NCAA by using code: #9999 on ACT/SAT form.
    • Keep working on your skills.
    • Have somebody videotape you. You can go on www.youtube.com and look at some recruiting videos. A 3-5 minute video is plenty. You want to be seen doing stick work drills, passing, cutting, and fielding. Feature 1-2 minutes of drills and 2-3 minutes of game play. When showing game play, make sure to include your off ball movement before and after your ball touch - coaches want to see how the play built up and what happened afterwards. iPhones are fine to use for video.
    • Have somebody time you. Many recruiting websites want a 40 or 50 yard dash time as well as a timed mile and even a timed 2 mile. Take those S & C runs seriously!


3. Should I email the coaches?

Yes. Coaches receive hundreds of emails from players just like you! You need to introduce yourself and get on their radar! I suggest a brief introductory email. 4 - 5 sentences max. Include:

• Name

• Year in school

• Position

• Years on Varsity

• Team Accolades. Starter? • Club Team

• G.P.A.

You may attach a resume but you will probably be asked to fill out the recruiting questionnaire online and will be providing most of that same info again.

4. What is the difference between division 1, 2, and 3?

Here is an excellent article about the 3 divisions. www.ncaa.org/student-athletes/future