There are many ways to be involved in sports after high school: click on the links below to learn more about the steps you need to take to play for Division I or II teams, as well as information about club sports, intramural sports, and opportunities to play sports at junior colleges.
Key Steps for D I, DII, or DIII Recruitment
Register with the NCAA your Freshman Year: Download this registration checklist to learn more about the process. Register for an Academic and Athletics Certification (costs $110) if you are applying to DI or DII schools, or an Amateurism-Only Certification (costs $75) for DIII schools.
Plan your Academic Path: There are certain courses that must be completed before your senior year, and you must maintain a GPA of 2.3 for DI schools and 2.2 for DII schools. Set up a meeting with Dr. Fletcher to make sure you are on track to achieve this.
Create a Highlight Reel: Compile game footage showing skills and progress, start early so you can highlight your journey.
Build a Target List: Identify schools you would like to apply to based on athletic talent, academic fit, and location, including realistic, dream, and backup options. Learn about their teams and coaches, and whether they have specific requirements for their school.
Reach out to Coaches: Reach out to coaches directly with emails containing your highlight video, athletic/academic stats, and schedule. For most NCAA Division I sports, coaches can initiate private, direct communication (calls, texts, emails) with high school recruits on June 15 after their sophomore year or September 1 of their junior year, depending on the sport.
Other Ways to Play Sports in College
Learn about the differences between intramural sports, club sports, and collegiate sports.
Interested in playing a sport at community college? Find out more about becoming a Junior College athlete and which schools are in the NJCAA.
Your journey to becoming an NCAA student-athlete begins long before you get to college. Start by visiting the NCAA Eligibility Center to learn more.
Download the NCAA Guide for the College-Bound student-athlete.