To get recruited to play college field hockey, you need to showcase your skills and attract the attention of college coaches. Here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of being recruited:
1. Develop and master your skills: Focus on improving your field hockey skills, including passing, shooting, and tackling. Work on your agility, speed, and endurance as well.
2. Join a competitive team: Playing for a competitive club or high school team will expose you to higher-level competition and increase your visibility to college coaches.
3. Attend camps and showcases: Participate in field hockey camps and showcases where college coaches may be present. This allows you to showcase your abilities and make connections with coaches.
4. Create an athletic resume: Put together a comprehensive resume that includes your academic information, field hockey experience, stats, awards, and contact information. This will make it easier for college coaches to evaluate your skill level.
5. Make a highlight video: Create a highlight reel of your best plays and skills. Include important game footage and individual skills demonstrations. Share this video with college coaches along with your athletic resume as an introduction to your abilities.
6. Reach out to college coaches: Take the initiative to contact college coaches directly and express your interest in their program. Send your resume, highlight video, and upcoming game schedules. Attend college recruitment events and meet coaches in person.
7. Maintain strong academics: College coaches not only want talented athletes but also students who can succeed academically. Focus on maintaining good grades and consider taking advanced classes to demonstrate your commitment to your education.
FAQs:
1. How early should I start thinking about college field hockey recruitment?
It’s never too early to start thinking about college field hockey recruitment. Begin researching colleges and understanding their field hockey programs as early as your freshman or sophomore year of high school.
2. Should I only focus on playing for high-profile teams?
While playing for high-profile teams can increase your visibility, it’s not the only way to get recruited. Coaches look for talented athletes regardless of the team they play for, so focus on showcasing your skills and performance wherever you play.
3. How important are good grades in the recruitment process?
Good grades are crucial in the field hockey recruitment process. College coaches want athletes who can excel academically as well. Maintain a strong GPA and take challenging courses to prove your dedication to academics.
4. How many colleges should I reach out to for recruitment?
Cast a wide net and reach out to multiple colleges that offer field hockey programs. It’s recommended to contact around 10-15 schools to increase your chances of finding the right fit for your athletic and academic goals.
5. What role do college showcases play in recruitment?
College showcases provide a platform for you to display your skills to a larger audience, including college coaches. These events allow coaches to evaluate your performance and determine if you are a good fit for their team.
6. How often should I update my athletic resume and highlight video?
Regularly update your athletic resume and highlight video to reflect your most recent achievements and skill improvements. This way, coaches always have access to your latest information when considering you for recruitment.
7. Is it necessary to hire a recruitment consultant?
Hiring a recruitment consultant is not required but can provide valuable guidance throughout the recruitment process. They can assist with creating a strong resume and highlight video, understanding NCAA rules, and connecting you with college coaches.
BOTTOM LINE:
To get recruited for college field hockey, focus on improving your skills, join competitive teams, attend showcases, create an athletic resume and highlight video, reach out to coaches, maintain good grades, and stay proactive in the recruitment process. Remember, it’s essential to showcase your talent on and off the field to grab the attention of college coaches.
