How do Athletic Scholarships Work? It is every athlete’s dream to enter a college or university and to represent that school in different leagues and tournaments, while at the same time receiving proper compensation. Here are some things to know when getting athletic scholarships.
1. What to do for Athletic Scholarships
Athletic scholarships are really coveted so unless you are the next Lebron James or Michael Jordan, you shouldn’t set your eyes solely on the best schools. Be realistic in choosing colleges or universities to apply in. Remember that there are only a limited number of slots for every college or university like Duke’s basketball program; for example so it is best to apply to different schools and programs. For instances such as this, it is best to ask advise from your high school coach or guidance counsellor regarding future schools and their matching athletic scholarships.
Also, go through everything when creating a list of prospect colleges or universities. It is best to do some research regarding the programs offered, the courses available, and other co-curricular activities that you could be a part of. Also, consider the location and environment of the campus as you will most likely be spending the next 4 years of your life there. Another important thing to remember is to not overlook smaller or less well-known colleges. After all, it is better to be a big fish in a small pond than a regular fish in a big pond.
2. What to Remember
Always remember that financial aids and scholarships are available to all NCAA division levels. And that there are a lot of colleges and universities outside the NCAA Division I level that offer the same benefits that come with athletic scholarships. Also, remember to not leave athletic scholarships as your only option; as there are a lot of scholarships and financial aids available.
It also doesn’t hurt to be granted multiple sources of financial aid. Another thing to remember is to directly contact admissions offices of prospect schools as opposed to contacting the coaches first; (contacting coaches directly isn’t allowed most of the time) when you have queries about the programs offered. Phone numbers and email addresses can usually be found on a school’s website under contact us or the about page.
3. Contacting Coaches
Here are some tips when contacting coaches about being considered for an athletic scholarship.
First of all, do not contact coaches too early or too late. This means the best time to contact coaches is mid-junior year to early-senior year. Also, address the coach by name and use the name of the university or college you are applying for to express interest. Provide a resume-type bio-data listing your information, some extra-curricular activities. And also provide information about your GPA, SAT, and ACT scores; as well as some awards (athletic and academic) you have received.
It also helps to attach referrals from teachers or your current coach clearly stating that your strengths; but not sounding too cocky at the same time. Also, offer a schedule of your games, and statistics and videos of you playing if possible. Last of all, be courteous. Comment your view on how do athletic scholarships work.
