Examine what collegiate programs you would like to try for... Your dream programs and those you wouldn't mind being a part of.
Get a list of your stats for the length of your high school career. Go back as far as you can, back to middle school.
Find areas you excel in, your top stats. Also, show areas where you have grown. Know these stats. Even know areas where you need growth. If asked, be honest about that.
Write a letter to the coaches of each of those programs. Let them know you are interested in their program and would like to know 1) what is the process of trying out for the team and possible scholarship and 2) could you come visit campus and tour their facilities. Share your highlight stats, then the areas you have grown. Mention one area of weakness and how you are working to fix it.
Include your GPA, ACT score, and any accolades you have received. Also, include a nice picture/head shot.
Have some highlight video clips converted to MPEG so you can easily e-mail them. Include these clips with your letter to the coach. Ask them to please email you back so you know they received your letter.
Have your HS coach contact them on your behalf. If you work with a personal trainer in your sport, have them call on your behalf. It shows how serious you are.
Once they communicate back, thank them and keep in communication with them. Work to go to some of their games during the season. Let the coach know well in advance you will be attending. The coach may take time to meet with you before or after the game. Take advantage of this! The more they see your face, hear your name, or hear from you directly, the more they will know you.
Do not think it is a given, keep in communication. Playing at the next level is an honor, no matter the sport. Realize that a major D1 school may have you as a walk on with no scholarship the first year, or minimum scholarship. A program in D2, D3, NAIA, or other organization may take you at a larger scholarship, or even full ride.
Do not get down on yourself because you are not offered what you think you are worth. Often times coaches go after their needs. A basketball team with several bigs may look for a point guard. A baseball team may just need a catcher to swap out with their primary.
Remember, you are an athlete AND a student, which truthfully makes you a leader. Don't do anything extracurricular that can jeopardize your possible college career.
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