Start your 16 NCAA-approved core courses RIGHT NOW. You need 10 completed before senior year starts — and the moment senior year begins those grades are permanently locked forever. Cannot be retaken.
What Coaches Are Doing Right Now
D1 coaches cannot call or text a freshman directly. But they CAN watch you compete at open camps and events. D2, D3, NAIA and JUCO coaches have more flexibility. Do not write those levels off — many athletes get more total aid at D3 than a partial D1 offer.
Register at the NCAA Eligibility Center
Go to eligibilitycenter.org now — free profile. D1 requires a minimum 2.3 core GPA on NCAA-approved courses only. D2 requires 2.2. Your overall school GPA does not count.
Start Your Film Now
Freshman film won't land offers. But coaches who see consistent improvement from Year 1 through Year 3 are significantly more likely to recruit an athlete. Document every game now.
Freshman Year Checklist
- 01Create free profile at eligibilitycenter.org
- 02Confirm all current classes are NCAA-approved core courses
- 03Begin filming every game and competition — store everything
- 04Research D1, D2, D3, NAIA, and JUCO honestly
- 05Attend summer camps at schools your athlete is genuinely interested in
- 06Build an athletic resume: sport, position, GPA, stats, contact info
- 07Start a target list of 30–50 schools across multiple Division levels
WORK WITH A RECRUITING SPECIALIST
Every family's situation is unique. Work 1-on-1 with a specialist to build the right recruiting strategy for your sport and goals.
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