College athletics is a way that students can pay for their education. Because colleges and universities belong to associations and to ensure that they are promoting education and positive values, each athletic association has a set of rules and guidelines that athletes must qualify in order to compete. It is VERY important that student athletes who wish to compete at the college level are aware of these rules and guidelines in order to ensure that are eligible to compete.
If you are a student that is planning on playing a sport at that college level, you must register through NCAA and/or NAIA depending on the school. Please also work with your school counselor to make sure you are taking the approved courses.
NCAA Clearinghouse - NCAA Eligibility Center
NAIA Eligibility Center - http://www.playnaia.org/