Imagine Johnny, a freshman in high school, loves soccer, has a good skill set, and wants more than anything to play in college.
By his junior year, he decides on a few schools at which he would like to play and sends the coaches of these schools his information. He receives an email or letter back from the coach explaining that his recruiting film is impressive as well as his skill, but the recruiting class for his age is already filled.
In truth, many Division I Men’s Soccer Teams would have probably filled the roster for the grade below Johnny as well. At this point, February of 2011, many schools may only have a few roster spots available for sophomores, none left for juniors or seniors.
Waiting, stalling, or getting in the game too late can be absolutely fatal in the college sports recruiting process. Through the years college recruiters have gone after students at younger ages, especially in the sports that have elite club and traveling teams. Don’t let your student athlete miss out on his or her opportunity.