Senior year of high school is an exciting and pivotal time for those student-athletes who aspire to play college sports. It’s the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and it marks the final stretch of the recruiting process. In this article, we’ll provide a month-to-month breakdown of the recruiting timeline for high school seniors. We’ll break down your senior year recruitment timeline into 5 key periods along and highlight key milestones, tasks, and the importance of staying organized and proactive throughout this critical year.
August to September: The Beginning of Senior Year
Key Milestones and Tasks:
- Finalize your list of target colleges.
- Update your athletic and academic profiles.
- Create a highlight reel or update your recruiting video.Stay Organized and Proactive: Start your senior year with a well-defined plan. Stay organized by maintaining a calendar of important dates, deadlines, and tasks. Begin reaching out to coaches and updating your recruitment materials to make a strong impression.
October to November: Application Season Begins
Key Milestones and Tasks:
- Begin preparing and submitting college applications.
- Take standardized tests (if needed) and send scores to colleges.
- Attend college fairs or virtual information sessions.
Stay Organized and Proactive: Stay on top of application deadlines and requirements for each college. Keep coaches updated on your progress and maintain a professional and respectful correspondence.
December to January: Decision Time Approaches
Key Milestones and Tasks:
- Continue submitting college applications, if necessary.
- Narrow down your list of college choices.
- Follow up with coaches regarding your recruitment status.
Stay Organized and Proactive: Keep track of your application status and financial aid offers. Make informed decisions about your college choices based on your athletic and academic fit. Communicate any updates or decisions to coaches promptly.
February to March: National Signing Day and Final Decisions
Key Milestones and Tasks:
- Finalize your college choice and submit your commitment.
- National Signing Day (if applicable).
- Prepare for your transition to college athletics.
Stay Organized and Proactive: Ensure all paperwork is completed correctly for National Signing Day if you’re participating. Once you’ve made your commitment, continue to excel academically and stay in touch with your future college coach for guidance on your preparation.
April to May: Preparing for College Athletics
Key Milestones and Tasks:
- Stay in contact with your college coach and prepare for summer workouts.
- Organize any necessary paperwork or medical forms for college athletics.
- Enjoy your final days of high school with friends and teammates.
Stay Organized and Proactive: Transitioning to college athletics requires preparation and dedication. Keep the lines of communication open with your coach, and ensure all required documents are in order. Finish high school on a high note academically and athletically.
Senior year is a whirlwind of excitement and decisions for student-athletes on the college recruiting journey. By following this month-to-month timeline, staying organized, and being proactive, you can navigate this critical phase successfully. Remember that open communication with college coaches, strong academic performance, and a clear plan are key to making your college athletics dreams a reality. Enjoy the process, celebrate your achievements, and look forward to the exciting opportunities that await you in college athletics.
