Prior to committing to a college for athletic purposes, high school athletes will have numerous conversations with their potential coaches. College coaches are likely to inform potential recruits of the benefits of playing for their specific team. However, conversations with college coaches can leave you with many unanswered questions. To help fill these gaps, comprise a list of questions for which you want answers before your next conversation.
Athletics
Going to college with the intention to play sports should raise a variety of questions regarding the athletic program at your potential school. College athletics will take up a large portion of the next four years of your life. Therefore, you want to familiarize yourself with an athletic program before making a decision. Ask numerous questions, including: Do you redshirt players? How many players are on the team? How many scholarships are available? How many games do you play each season? How many games require overnight travel? What is the off-season conditioning program like? Will I be able to play as a freshman?
Academics
Academics are an important part of your ability to stay on a college team, keep any scholarships you may receive and aid in finding a job after graduation. Ask many questions regarding academics at your potential school. What are the admission requirements at this school? What GPA am I expected to maintain as a college athlete? What happens if classes are missed for away games? Are tutors available? How many classes am I required to take each semester? Do a majority of student-athletes graduate in four years?
College Experience
Many college freshmen head away to school to experience life on their own and get a feel for the social aspect of a university. Get a feel from the coach of what college life is like at that school. Ask as many questions as you can think of, including: Are student-athletes close with each other? Will I be rooming with another student-athlete? Do student-athletes spend summers on campus? Am I able to work or participate in other activities during the sports season?
Other Questions
When deciding on which college is right for you, there is no such thing as a stupid question. Ask as many questions as you feel necessary to make an informed decision regarding your college athletic career. Other questions may include: Can I visit the campus? What positions do you envision me playing on your team? When will we be discussing my playing for your team again? When do I need to make a decision by? Is it possible to talk to another student-athlete regarding how they enjoy your school and how they made a decision on where to play?
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