CONTACT PERIOD

As a high school athlete, it's crucial to be familiar with the different phases of the college sports recruitment process. One essential aspect of this process is the contact period. The contact period is an exciting time for high school athletes who are hoping to make it to the big leagues and pursue their dreams of becoming a collegiate athlete. In this blog, we will discuss what contact period in college sports is, how it works, and what you can expect during this time.

What is Contact Period?

The contact period is the time frame that allows college coaches to initiate face-to-face interactions with high school athletes. During this time, coaches from NCAA Division I and II schools are allowed to have in-person contact with high school athletes at their school or residence. They can also visit them at sporting events and contact them via telephone, text messages, or email. However, coaches are not allowed to offer scholarships or discuss recruiting materials during this time.

How Long Does the Contact Period Last?

The contact period can vary in length, depending on the sport and the time of the year. For example, the NCAA guidelines permit coaches to have a 42-day contact period for football, while basketball has two contact periods per year, which usually last for a week each. It's essential to keep an eye on your sport's contact period and prepare accordingly.

What Happens During the Contact Period?

During the contact period, coaches are allowed to observe the high school athletes attending their games or competitions. College coaches can also conduct in-person evaluations of the athlete during this time, which allows them to assess their skills and recruit them for their team. Additionally, coaches can hold informal conversations or ""chats"" with the athletes to gauge their interest and personality.

How to Make the Most Out of Contact Period?

The contact period is an excellent opportunity for high school athletes to showcase their skills and personality to coaches. To make the most out of this time, it's crucial to be proactive and strategically plan your approach. Here are some things you can do to stay ahead of the competition:

Create a recruiting profile that highlights your strengths and achievements.
Stay in touch with your prospective college coaches via email, text messages, or phone calls.
Make sure your social media presence is on point and showcases your positive attitude and personality.
Attend as many tournaments, games, or events as you can, to allow coaches to observe you in action.

Understanding the contact period in college sports is crucial for any high school athlete who dreams of playing in college. It's important to be aware of the different rules and regulations regarding the contact period and to make sure that you are adequately prepared for this exciting time. By following the tips mentioned above and being proactive, you can increase your chances of getting recruited by the college of your dreams. Remember, the contact period is all about showcasing your skills and personality to coaches, so make the most out of this opportunity!