​Embarking on the journey of college football recruitment is an exciting yet challenging time for high school athletes. While the football program itself is undoubtedly important, it's equally crucial to consider the non-athletic aspects when choosing the right college for your future. In this blog post, we'll break down five key factors outside of athletics that every aspiring college football player should consider: Location, Academics, Social Life, Career Opportunities, and School Size.

Location: Location, they say, is everything, and it holds true for your college choice. Consider the following:

• Proximity to Home: Think about how far you're willing to be from home. Do you prefer to be close to family and friends, or are you open to exploring a new city or state?
• Climate: Different regions offer varying weather conditions. Do you thrive in the sunshine, or do you love the charm of a snowy winter?
• Urban or Rural: Decide if you'd thrive in the bustling atmosphere of a city campus or the tranquility of a rural setting.

Academics: Your education should be a top priority, even as you pursue your football dreams. Evaluate the academic programs offered by potential colleges:

• Majors and Minors: Ensure the college offers your desired academic path or gives you the flexibility to explore your interests.
• Faculty: Research the qualifications and reputation of the professors in your chosen field.
• Academic Support: Look for resources such as tutoring, study groups, and academic advisors to help you succeed academically.

Social Life: College is not just about academics and sports; it's also about personal growth and experiences. Consider:

• Campus Culture: Each college has a unique vibe and culture. Visit campuses, talk to current students, and imagine yourself fitting in.
• Extracurricular Activities: Beyond football, what other clubs or organizations interest you? These can enhance your college experience.
• Diversity: Explore the diversity of the student body and the opportunities for cultural enrichment.

Career Opportunities After College: While you may have your heart set on a football career, it's essential to have a backup plan. Think about:

• Internship and Job Placement: Research the college's track record in helping students secure internships and jobs in your field of interest.
• Alumni Network: A strong alumni network can provide valuable connections and opportunities in the future.
• Graduate School: If you plan to pursue further education, check the college's reputation for graduate programs.

Size of School: The size of the college can significantly impact your experience:

• Class Size: Consider your preference for smaller, more intimate classes or larger lecture-style courses.
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: A lower ratio often means more personalized attention from professors.
• Community: Smaller schools can provide a tight-knit community, while larger universities offer more diverse social opportunities.

Choosing the right college for your football journey involves careful consideration of various factors. By evaluating aspects like location, academics, social life, career opportunities, and school size, you can make an informed decision that not only supports your athletic ambitions but also prepares you for a well-rounded future. Remember, your college years are about more than just the game; they're about shaping your life and your path to success. Good luck with your recruitment journey!

When it comes to college football recruitment, there's a common misconception among high school athletes: that Division I (D1) football is the only path worth pursuing. While D1 programs undoubtedly offer a high level of competition and exposure, they're not the only option for aspiring college football players. In fact, there are several compelling reasons to consider other divisions and programs. Here's why:

1. More Opportunities to Play
D1 programs are highly competitive, with limited roster spots. This means that even if you're recruited, there's no guarantee you'll see significant playing time. In contrast, lower divisions often provide more opportunities for players to get on the field and make an impact.

2. Academic Considerations
Not every athlete's academic aspirations align with D1 schools. Some of the best academic institutions in the country compete in lower divisions. If you have specific academic goals or are interested in a particular field of study, it might be worth considering schools outside of D1.

3. Smaller Class Sizes
Many D1 schools are large institutions with tens of thousands of students. If you thrive in a more intimate learning environment, a smaller college or university might be a better fit. This can lead to more personalized attention both on and off the field.

4. Building Stronger Relationships
With smaller team sizes in lower divisions, there's a greater chance to build close-knit relationships with teammates and coaches. These relationships can be invaluable, providing mentorship, support, and networking opportunities throughout your college career and beyond.

5. Financial Considerations
While D1 programs often have more athletic scholarships available, they're also more competitive. Lower division schools might offer a combination of athletic, academic, and need-based scholarships that can make your college education more affordable.

6. Post College Opportunities
Playing in D1 doesn't guarantee a career in the NFL. Many players from lower divisions have gone on to have successful professional careers. Moreover, the skills, discipline, and work ethic you develop playing college football can translate to success in various fields, not just professional sports.

7. Personal Growth and Development
College is a time for personal growth and development. Playing for a lower division can provide a more balanced college experience, allowing you to engage in other extracurricular activities, pursue internships, or study abroad.

8. Less Pressure, More Enjoyment
While competition is fierce in all divisions, there's often less pressure in lower divisions compared to the high-stakes world of D1 football. This can allow you to enjoy the game more and remember why you fell in love with football in the first place.

9. Finding the Right Balance
At DII or DIII programs, it's often easier to strike the right balance between being a student, an athlete, and participating in other campus activities. D1 programs can sometimes demand a significant time commitment, which might limit your involvement in other aspects of college life. In contrast, DII and DIII schools often promote a more holistic college experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in various facets of campus life while still pursuing your athletic passions.

While D1 football has its merits, it's essential to consider all your options. By broadening your horizons, you might find a college and football program that aligns better with your academic, athletic, and personal goals. Remember, the best choice is the one that sets you up for success both on and off the field.

​When you're in 9th grade and dreaming of playing college football, the world of recruiting might seem like a distant and complex maze. But, as someone who has walked alongside countless high school athletes on their journey to college football, I can assure you that the path to success begins much earlier than you might think. Here's a playbook to guide you through your freshman year, ensuring you're well-prepared for the recruiting process ahead.

Have Fun Playing Football
Before anything else, remember why you started playing football in the first place. It's a game, and it's meant to be enjoyed. Your passion for the sport will shine through in your performance, and college recruiters can spot genuine enthusiasm a mile away. So, lace up those cleats, hit the field, and most importantly, have fun!

Develop Great Study Habits
Football isn't just about physical prowess; it's a mental game too. Developing strong study habits early on will not only help you excel academically but will also train your mind to be disciplined, focused, and resilient—qualities that are invaluable on the football field.

Grades Matter. A Lot
I've seen it time and time again: a talented player overlooked by colleges because of poor academic performance. Remember, you're not just being recruited as an athlete, but as a student-athlete. Colleges want players who can handle the dual pressures of academics and athletics. Don't let poor grades in your early high school years come back to haunt you during your junior and senior years when recruiting heats up.

Gaining Weight and Building Strength
One of the most crucial aspects of preparing for college football is physical development. As you grow and mature, it's essential to focus on gaining weight and building muscle in a healthy and controlled manner. The weight room will become your best friend. Dedicate time to strength training, learn the correct techniques, and work with coaches or trainers who can guide you. A strong physique not only enhances your performance on the field but also catches the eye of college recruiters.

Offers Aren't Always Set in Stone
It's exciting to receive an offer, but it's important to understand that offers aren't commitable until later in high school. This means that while a college might express interest, they're not ready to make a binding commitment just yet. Stay patient, keep improving, and when the time is right, those offers will solidify.

9th grade is a foundational year for aspiring college football players. It's a time to lay the groundwork, both athletically and academically, for the years ahead. Remember, the path to college football is a marathon, not a sprint. Take it one step at a time, stay focused on your goals, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. And while it's essential to be ambitious and driven, don't put too much pressure on yourself. The gridiron awaits!

Recruiting is a journey. Over the years, I've discovered that the path to recruiting success isn't always a straight line. It's filled with twists, turns, and unexpected ups and downs. Today, I'm here to share with you five thoughts that have not only reshaped my mindset on recruiting but have also amplified my results 10X. 

Everyone's Journey is Different

It's easy to fall into the trap of comparison, especially in the world of recruiting. We often measure our progress against others, feeling down when someone else seems to be moving faster or achieving more. But here's the golden truth: everyone has their own unique path. Just as every individual is unique, so is their journey in the recruiting world. Embrace your journey, with its ups and downs, knowing that it's tailor-made for you. Celebrate the successes of others, but never let their path deter you from your own.

All It Takes Is 1 Message to make a Difference

In the digital age, we're inundated with countless ways to connect. But remember this: all it takes is one. One phone call, one text, one direct message can be the game-changer. It's that one meaningful connection that can open doors, build relationships, and set the stage for a successful recruitment. So, don't be overwhelmed by the numbers. Focus on making that one impactful connection, and watch the magic unfold.

Patience is Super Important

Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a robust recruiting strategy. It's essential to understand that good things, especially in recruiting, take time. Whether it's waiting for the right School or nurturing a relationship, patience is truly the key. Trust in the process, give it time, and you'll reap the rewards of your perseverance.

Film & Grades create the Opportunities

In the world of recruiting, it's easy to get swayed by the noise. But if there's one thing I've learned, it's this: film and grades surpass everything else. A prospects film gives you an a glimpse into their skills, while their grades reflect their dedication and commitment. These two factors combined provide a real view of a candidate's potential. So, before getting swayed by other factors, always prioritize film and grades.

Stats Aren't Everything

Numbers can be deceiving. While stats provide a quantitative measure, they don't always paint the complete picture. A prospect might have stellar stats but lack the essential soft skills or vice versa. Remember, it's the holistic view of a candidate that truly matters. A College Coach will Look beyond the numbers and dive deeper into understanding the individual.

The world of recruiting is dynamic and ever-evolving. But with the right mindset, it can be a rewarding experience. Embrace these five thoughts, approach recruiting with optimism, and you'll find that not only will your journey be smoother, but your results will also be magnified tenfold. Here's to a brighter, more successful future in recruiting! 🌟

​The journey from high school football to college football is a dream for many student-athletes. However, the path to achieving this dream is often filled with challenges, uncertainties, and competition. As a high school football head coach, you play a pivotal role in guiding your players through this journey and maximizing their chances of getting recruited. Here are the top 5 things you can do to assist your student-athletes in their journey to play college football:

1. Help Parents and Players Understand NCAA Academic Requirements:
   • The NCAA has specific academic requirements that student-athletes must meet to be eligible to play college football. It's crucial to educate both players and their parents about these requirements early on. This includes understanding the core courses, GPA requirements, and standardized test scores.
   • By being well-informed, players can plan their high school academic journey in a way that aligns with NCAA standards, ensuring they don't miss out due to academic ineligibility.
2. Create a Comprehensive Player Profile:
   • Building a detailed spreadsheet, document, or presentation for each student-athlete is invaluable. This profile should include their measurables, photographs, stats, HUDL link, ACT/SAT scores, transcripts, and more.
   • Having this information readily available makes it easier to share with college coaches, whether during on-campus visits, through direct messages, or via email. It provides a snapshot of the player's academic and athletic achievements, making the recruitment process smoother.
3. Appoint a Volunteer Recruiting Coordinator:
   • Recruiting is a full-time job, and as a head coach, you already have a lot on your plate. Consider hiring a volunteer recruiting coordinator, possibly an assistant coach or a parent with sales skills.
   • This coordinator can handle outreach to colleges, bridge the communication gap between high school and college coaches, arrange visits, and educate parents about the recruiting process. Their role can significantly reduce the administrative burden on you and ensure a more organized approach to recruitment.
4. Provide Honest Player Evaluations:
   • It's essential to give your players a realistic assessment of their skills and potential. By providing honest evaluations, you help set reasonable expectations for the level of college football they can aim for, whether it's Division I, II, or III.
   • This guidance can prevent players from aiming too high or too low and help them target schools where they have the best chance of success both academically and athletically.
5. Forge Strong Relationships with Colleges:
   • Building and maintaining relationships with college coaches is crucial. Often, these coaches will turn to you for an honest assessment of a player's skills and character.
   • Open and honest communication with college coaches can enhance your players' credibility and increase their chances of being noticed.

While a head coach can't guarantee scholarships for their players, they can undoubtedly influence the recruitment process. By taking proactive steps, providing guidance, and fostering relationships, you can significantly enhance your student-athletes' chances of realizing their dream of playing college football. Remember, it's not just about the game; it's about shaping the future of these young athletes.