The FBS Recruiting Calendar for 23-24 has been released. Recruits save a copy of this to your phone so you can stay up on when Coaches are able to communicate and come on campus. ​

Hey there! Can you believe summer camps are finally over? It feels like it went by in a flash! But you know what? College coaches are probably feeling the same way too. With July wrapping up, it's time for FCS through DIII programs to switch gears and get ready for the upcoming season. And guess what? This shift is going to affect your recruiting journey in some ways. Let's break it down.

First off, there's something called the NCAA Dead Period. It means coaches can't have players or families visiting their campuses for recruiting in the whole month of August. But don't worry, they can still chat with you over the phone or online, so it's not a complete shutdown.

One thing you might notice is that coaches won't be as chatty as they were before. It's not because they don't like you or anything, but they're just super busy getting their teams ready for the season. Their jobs are on the line, so you can imagine the pressure they're under.

Now, here's a tip: the coolest thing you can do to impress coaches is to have amazing game tape. But to do that, you need to stay healthy and get out on the field as much as you can during the preseason. When the coaches shift their focus back to recruiting, you'll have awesome stuff to show them.

Alright, let's talk about the different grades. If you're a 2024 grad, you might have to wait until mid-Fall to know where you stand. Teams want to check out their current players before making final recruiting moves. Specialists usually fall into this group, so be patient.
Now, if you're a 2025 grad, things get a bit more exciting. After September 1st, college coaches can talk to you openly. So, reach out to the programs you connected with during the summer camps. Send them a quick hello on Twitter or email. Remind them of the awesome time you had at their camps.

Oh, and guess what? You can totally ask if you and your family can attend one of the team's games! They set aside tickets for this purpose, and it's a great way to show your interest.

In the crazy world of recruiting, things can get a bit confusing. Coaches are looking at different players, and players are looking at different schools. You never know who likes you back for real. But if a coach is talking to you a lot or keeping the conversation going, that's a good sign they're into you.
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So, here's the deal: embrace this time of change, stay focused on your goals, and believe in yourself. It's a journey, and there might be twists and turns, but with your talent and determination, you've got this! Good luck!

Game day visits are a thrilling opportunity for prospective student-athletes to experience the atmosphere of college sports, explore campus facilities, and get a glimpse of their potential future in collegiate athletics. While these visits are unofficial and come with certain expenses, they offer valuable insights that can significantly influence your college decision. In this blog post, we'll dive into how game day visits work, what to expect, and some dos and don'ts to make the most out of this exciting opportunity.

Understanding Game Day Visits
Game day visits are unofficial visits to college campuses that require you to cover your own travel, accommodation, and food expenses. Typically, the college provides three game tickets for you and your guests to attend the sporting event. Although these visits are commonly associated with football recruiting, they are also prevalent in other sports.

The Purpose of Game Day Visits
For college coaches, game day visits serve as an opportunity to bring potential recruits to their campus during the recruiting period. These visits allow student-athletes to witness the school's environment, check out the athletic facilities, and observe the team in action during a live game.

Should You Attend a Game Day Visit?
Attending a game day visit can be a game-changer in your college decision process. Being on campus, witnessing the team's performance, and experiencing the college environment firsthand can confirm or alter your interest in a particular institution. However, it's essential to consider the financial aspect since these visits can be costly. Be selective in choosing which colleges to visit, focusing on those where you know the coach has a genuine interest in recruiting you.

Game Day Invite Do's and Don'ts
When attending a game day visit, it's crucial to adhere to certain guidelines:

1. Respect the Hosting Coach: If you were invited by the home team's coach, prioritize their program and college during your visit, even if you have interest in both schools. Show appreciation for the opportunity they provided.
2. Dress Comfortably: Unlike formal official visits, game day visits have a more laid-back atmosphere. Dress neatly and comfortably, such as in dark pants and a respectable top, suitable for cheering in the stands.
   
3. Remember you are always being evaluated.  Try to pay attention and stay off the phone as much as possible.  Playing a game or texting non-stop instead of watching the game may be a red flag to those who are evaluating You.  
   
   

Follow Up and Show Gratitude
After the game day visit, don't forget to follow up with the coach and staff. Send them a thank-you email or direct message to express your appreciation for the chance to see their team in action. Even if you didn't have a direct meeting with the coach, showing interest and keeping the lines of communication open are crucial as your recruiting process progresses.

Making a Positive Impression
During the visit, be sure to leave a positive impression on the team and the coach. Show respect to those around you, including your parents and coaches, and demonstrate genuine interest in the college's activities and programs. Engage enthusiastically when discussing the curriculum or any other aspects of college life. Remember, this visit provides an opportunity to envision your potential future at the college, regardless of the outcome.

Game day visits are an invaluable part of the college recruiting process for student-athletes. They offer a unique chance to immerse yourself in the college atmosphere, observe the team in action, and gain firsthand insights into the college experience. By following the etiquette, showing gratitude, and making a positive impression during these visits, you'll not only leave a lasting impact but also make an informed decision about your future college and athletic career. Embrace the excitement and thrill of game day visits, and let them guide you towards finding the perfect fit for your academic and athletic pursuits.

​Once upon a time in the small town of Gridironville, there lived a talented high school football player named Alex. With a passion for the game and dreams of playing college football, Alex knew he had to take his skills to the next level. Little did he know that the key to unlocking his potential and catching the eyes of college recruiters lay in the magical realm of off-season training.

As the final whistle blew on his senior year, Alex knew he couldn't afford to rest on his laurels. The competition to secure college football scholarships was fierce, and he needed every advantage he could get. Determined to make his dreams come true, he set off on an off-season training journey like no other.
In the heart of Gridironville, hidden away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, was a secret training ground known as "The Forge." Legend had it that this place held mystical powers, capable of transforming ordinary high school players into college-ready recruits.
The journey to The Forge was not an easy one. Alex had to endure grueling workouts, early morning drills, and intense conditioning sessions. Led by a wise and seasoned coach, the training was designed to push players beyond their limits, honing their skills and mental fortitude.

But Alex was not alone in his quest. Alongside him were a group of dedicated teammates, each with their own aspirations of college football glory. Together, they formed an unbreakable bond, pushing and inspiring one another to excel.
As the days turned into weeks, and the weeks into months, Alex could feel himself growing stronger, faster, and more confident. The Forge was molding him into a player he never thought he could become. But the true test awaited them – the college football showcase.

Hundreds of high school prospects from all over the region gathered on the hallowed turf of the showcase event. College coaches and recruiters lined the sidelines, their eyes keenly assessing each player's potential.

With his heart pounding and adrenaline rushing through his veins, Alex stepped onto the field. The showcase was a chance to showcase everything he had learned during his off-season training, and he was determined to leave it all on the field.

From the first snap, Alex's hard work and dedication were on full display. His speed left defenders in the dust, his agility made him a nightmare to tackle, and his precision passing caught the eyes of every college coach present.

As the sun set on the showcase, Alex couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. He had given it his all, and it showed. Little did he know that his performance had caught the attention of several college coaches, and they were eager to learn more about the rising star from Gridironville.

In the weeks that followed, college recruitment letters flooded Alex's mailbox. One by one, they offered him a chance to continue his football journey at some of the most prestigious colleges in the country. The dreams he once thought were out of reach were now within his grasp.

The magical journey of Alex from a talented high school player to a college recruit was a testament to the power of off-season training. It had not only enhanced his physical abilities but also instilled in him the resilience and determination needed to succeed on and off the field.
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And so, dear readers, the story of Alex teaches us an essential lesson – the path to college football glory is paved with hard work, dedication, and the willingness to go the extra mile. So, if you have dreams of playing college football, remember the tale of Alex and the magic of off-season training. Your journey may just be waiting to unfold!

The journey towards becoming a college football player can be an exhilarating and challenging experience. One of the most difficult aspects can be dealing with rejection. It's an integral part of the recruitment process and can test even the most resilient of athletes. While it's natural to feel disappointed when faced with rejection, it's critical to stay motivated and committed to your goals. In this blog post, we'll explore some strategies to help you navigate through these setbacks.

Understand That Rejection is Part of the Process

First and foremost, remember that rejection is a normal part of the recruitment process. There are thousands of high school football players competing for limited spots on college teams, and it's impossible for everyone to get an offer from their top choice. Remember, even the best athletes have faced rejection at some point in their careers. Treat each 'no' as an opportunity for learning and growth.

Don't Take It Personally

When you receive a rejection, it can be easy to take it personally. However, a college's decision not to recruit you isn't necessarily a reflection of your worth or abilities as an athlete. There are various factors at play in recruitment decisions, such as team requirements, budget constraints, or the coach's specific strategies. Understanding this can help you avoid negative self-criticism.

Maintain a Positive Mindset

A positive attitude is key to overcoming setbacks in any area of life, including college football recruitment. Focus on the progress you've made so far and remind yourself of your passion for the game. Staying positive doesn't mean ignoring your emotions - it's okay to feel upset or disappointed. However, it's important to bounce back and continue working towards your goals.

Evaluate and Learn
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Use rejection as a learning experience. Ask for feedback from coaches and evaluate your performances. Understanding why you didn't get selected can provide valuable insights on areas you need to improve. This is not a time to wallow in self-pity but to analyze and strategize. What can you improve in your game? What other skills can you bring to a team?

Expand Your Options

If you've been rejected by your top choices, it may be time to consider other options. There are many great football programs out there, including those at Division II and III schools. Broadening your options increases your chances of finding a college program that's a good fit for you, both acadically and athletically.

Lean on Your Support Network

Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Talk to your coaches, family, and friends about your feelings. They can provide emotional support and a fresh perspective. Connecting with other athletes who have gone through the same process can also be incredibly helpful.

Keep Working Hard

Finally, the most important thing to do after facing rejection is to keep working hard. Persistence is key in the world of sports. Continue training, improving your skills, and performing at your best. The road to becoming a college football player can be tough, but every setback is an opportunity to demonstrate your resilience and dedication to the sport you love.

Dealing with rejection is challenging but it's not the end of the road. Staying motivated, learning from your experiences, and continually working hard will help you navigate through the recruitment process. Remember, a rejection is just a redirection, and it might be guiding you to an opportunity better than you had imagined.

Football is a way of life. And in America, the relationship between a young player and the college of their dreams often follows a path akin to a whirlwind romance. Welcome to the tempestuous, adrenaline-pumping world of college football recruiting. If you're a prospective player, an anxious parent, a clipboard-wielding coach, or a bleacher-warmer, buckle up. It's going to be a bumpy ride.

​The Game Before THE Game
When football's not happening on the field, it's happening in the locker rooms, classrooms, homes, and even in the students' inboxes. It’s no secret; recruitment is the invisible match behind the roaring flame of college football. So, let's dive into the battlefield, er, football field.
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A Tale of Four Periods
Like the four quarters of a football game, the recruiting cycle has four periods—contact, evaluation, quiet, and dead. Don't let the names fool you. They're more about strategy than silence or demise.
1. Contact Period: Picture it like speed dating. It's a fast and furious time when coaches can woo players face-to-face, call them, write to them, watch them play, and do just about everything short of skywriting their names. Coaches try their best to sell their programs without sounding like an infomercial. Players, on the other hand, attempt to project an image of "cool" while internally freaking out.
2. Evaluation Period: The thrill of the chase, minus the chase. Coaches can watch players, either live or on tape, but they can't chat up players beyond casual greetings. It's like window shopping—seeing the goods but not allowed to try them on.
3. Quiet Period: Now, this is like being grounded for a little while. Coaches can only meet athletes or their parents if they come to the college's campus. No game evaluations, and they certainly can't watch players compete unless they conveniently happen to be on the college’s turf. Talk about a home-field advantage.
4. Dead Period: The name might sound like a snooze fest, but it's more like a pit-stop in this race. Coaches can't meet athletes face-to-face, can't watch them compete, or visit their schools. They can write and phone, though, keeping the lines of communication warm, not hot.

The Day of Reckoning: National Signing Day
Cue the drumroll, because the first Wednesday in February is when a high school senior can sign a National Letter of Intent (NLI) for college football. It's the Facebook Official moment in the college-football-athlete relationship. But wait, there's an Early Signing Period too in December for those eager beavers who just can't wait to seal the deal.

Promises, Promises
In this twisty world of football recruitment, athletes often get scholarship offers and might even verbally commit to a school. But remember, until you put a ring, or rather, a signature on that NLI, it's all just whispers and winks.

Playbook for the Prospective Players
Some helpful advice for young athletes trying to make sense of this madness:

• Start Early: The early bird gets the scholarship. So, keep those grades up, muscles pumped, and make sure you have a camera rolling for those fantastic plays.
• Be Proactive: Don't just wait by the phone. Send out those emails, attend camps, make your presence felt. Remember, fortune favors the brave (and the assertive).
• Stay Organized: Keep track of communication, visits, offers, and deadlines. You're not just a player, but also your own manager.
• Take Your Time: Big decisions demand big consideration. Take your time. Weigh all your options, including academics, team culture, and how homesick you might get.

In the end, college football recruiting is like a rollercoaster ride—exciting, nerve-wracking, and a story you'll tell for years. And while the rules may seem as complicated as understanding why anyone would ever call a timeout with only two seconds on the clock, they're a crucial part of this beloved sport. Remember, you’re not just playing the game; you’re also playing the game behind the game. Onwards, future football stars!

​So, your child is dreaming of playing college football, and you're determined to be the supportive parent without crossing into the red flag territory. Well, fret not! In this blog post, we'll navigate the treacherous waters of college football recruiting with a dash of wit and a whole lot of wisdom. Here are five subjects to keep in mind if you want to avoid being the dreaded red flag parent to college football coaches.

Don't Post Negative Things on Social Media:
​Let's face it, social media is a double-edged sword. It can be a treasure trove of cat videos and memes, but it can also be a minefield of controversy. Remember, college coaches have Sherlock Holmes-level investigative skills when it comes to stalking... um, I mean, researching potential recruits. So, avoid venting your frustrations or engaging in heated debates online. Instead, use social media to showcase your child's achievements and positive experiences. It's like showing off their shiny trophies without sounding like a sports version of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

Don't Run Your Player's Social Media Accounts, Coaches Know:

Picture this: you're sitting at your computer, fiercely typing witty captions for your child's Instagram post, and you suddenly realize... coaches are watching! While it might be tempting to become a social media guru for your budding athlete, take a step back and let your child handle their own accounts. Coaches want to see your child's individuality and independence, not a helicopter parent disguised as a social media manager. So, let your child shine in the digital realm and show coaches that they have the communication skills to navigate the vast social media landscape.

Focus on Your Players' Grades and Behavior (not stats):

Ah, the eternal struggle of valuing grades and behavior over stats. College coaches aren't just looking for football superstars; they want players who can also ace their academics and exhibit good behavior on and off the field. Sure, touchdowns and tackles are impressive, but don't forget to emphasize the importance of hitting the books and being a good teammate. Coaches want well-rounded individuals who won't drop the ball when it comes to character and discipline. So, remind your child that being a star in the classroom and a team player can score major points with college coaches.

Don't Burn the Bridge with Your High School Coach:

In the world of college football recruiting, high school coaches are like the gatekeepers to the Promised Land. It's essential to maintain a healthy relationship with them and avoid unnecessary clashes. Remember, college coaches often seek input from high school coaches, so you don't want to be the parent who burned bridges instead of building them. Work together, show respect, and foster a positive partnership. Think of it as a strategic alliance rather than a battlefield. Trust me, your child's recruiting journey will thank you later.

Don't Be a Helicopter Parent:

Ah, the helicopter parent, the mythical creature that hovers relentlessly, swooping in at any sign of adversity. But here's the thing: college coaches aren't looking for a co-pilot; they want players who can navigate their own flight path. So, resist the urge to micromanage every aspect of your child's recruitment process. Allow them to take the lead, make decisions, and communicate directly with coaches. Remember, it's their football journey, not yours. Step back, fasten your seatbelt, and enjoy the ride from the sidelines.
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​Congratulations, parent-extraordinaire! By following these guidelines with a sprinkle of wit, you'll avoid the dreaded red flag status while supporting your child's college football dreams. Remember, college coaches are searching for not just talented athletes, but also well-rounded individuals from supportive families. So, keep the social media vibes positive, empower your child to handle their own accounts, prioritize grades and behavior, nurture relationships with high school coaches, and resist the urge to hover. With these tips in your playbook, your child will be well on their way to impressing college football coaches without raising any red flags along the journey. Touchdown!

In recent years, the college football landscape has witnessed a significant shift with the emergence of the transfer portal. This portal has revolutionized the way student-athletes navigate their collegiate careers, offering them the opportunity to transfer to new programs without penalty. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just getting acquainted with the sport, understanding the transfer portal is crucial. In this article, we'll explore the top five things you need to know about the transfer portal in football.
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What is the Transfer Portal?The transfer portal is an online database that serves as a platform for student-athletes to explore transfer opportunities. It allows players to enter their names, indicating their intention to explore a transfer. This process notifies college coaches across the country about the availability of these athletes. It is important to note that entering the transfer portal does not guarantee a transfer; it merely signals a player's intention to explore new opportunitie

Increased Transfer Opportunities:
Prior to the transfer portal, transferring between college football programs was a complex and often restrictive process. Student-athletes were often required to seek permission from their current program to contact other schools, and there were various eligibility rules and penalties in place. The transfer portal has simplified this process by providing a centralized platform for players to openly explore transfer options. This increased accessibility has led to a surge in transfer activity, with more players seeking opportunities at different programs.

Waiver Process and Eligibility:Once a student-athlete enters the transfer portal, they must still navigate the NCAA's eligibility rules and waiver process to secure immediate playing time at their new institution. While some transfers may be eligible to play immediately due to exceptional circumstances or waivers granted by the NCAA, others may have to sit out a year before becoming eligible. However, recent changes in NCAA legislation have made it easier for student-athletes to obtain immediate eligibility, leading to more players being able to contribute right away.

Impact on Recruiting:The transfer portal has reshaped the college football recruiting landscape. Coaches must now balance their recruiting efforts by identifying potential high school prospects while also keeping an eye on the transfer portal for immediate impact players. The portal has allowed teams to fill roster gaps quickly and address specific needs. For players, the transfer portal has increased their exposure and opportunities to showcase their talents to a broader range of programs.

Unpredictability and Roster Management:The transfer portal has injected an element of unpredictability into college football. Roster management has become more challenging for coaches, as they must account for potential departures and identify suitable replacements through transfers or recruiting. The portal's impact extends beyond individual player decisions, often influencing the team's dynamics and overall competitiveness within conferences.

The transfer portal has undoubtedly transformed the landscape of college football. With its increased accessibility and streamlined process, student-athletes now have greater freedom to explore transfer opportunities. Coaches, on the other hand, must adapt their recruiting and roster management strategies to leverage the portal's potential. As the transfer portal continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to witness its impact on the game and how it shapes the future of college football.