There is much confusion among student athletes and their families when it comes to the NCAA Rules of Contact. Most recently, the rules of communication have changed. Below, I have explained the types of comminication in detail to help you better understand the rules.
NCAA Division 1 college coaches cannot correspond through email with prospective student athletes or parents until September 1 of their junior year. A student athlete can (and should) send emails to coaches throughout the year and include video!
Beginning September 1st of your junior year, college coaches can now unlimitedly call, email, text and instant message. This does not mean you need to wait until September 1st of your junior year to begin the recruiting process. This would be a HUGE mistake. You need to get started early to help your student athlete process what is important to them in their college experience.
College coaches are restricted from having off campus face-to-face conversations with student athletes, and their families until July 1st AFTER your junior year. Ever have an awkward moment with a coach at a tournament? They are not trying to be rude, coaches are not allowed to say much.
A student athlete and their family can make an unlimited amount of UNOFFICIAL visits, and meet with the coaching staff, except during the designated dead periods. These visits are paid for by the family. You should begin getting on college campuses as early as your freshman year. This will help your student athlete figure out what they want in a college. The guided tours are fantastic at most colleges!
If you have questions about the recruiting process, email Kara@myrecruitingsolutions.com or call 714-323-8088. I’m happy to offer your family a free consultation to help you better understand the process, and create a strategy for success.