EARLY SIGNING PERIOD

As a high school athlete contemplating the opportunity to play collegiate sports, it's important to understand the ins and outs of the college application process. One major aspect to be aware of is the early signing period, a recent addition to college sports that allows student-athletes to sign with colleges before the regular signing period begins. In this blog post, we'll explain what the early signing period is, when it takes place, who is eligible for it, and why it can benefit you.

The early signing period is a three-day window during which high school senior student-athletes can sign a National Letter of Intent (NLI) to commit to playing sports at a Division I or Division II school, usually held in November. This means that seniors who have already made their college decision can sign an agreement with their chosen school before the regular signing period begins in February.

There are some restrictions to the early signing period. First, not all sports or schools participate in it. For example, football has an early signing period in December, while basketball and most other sports follow the November early signing period. Second, only student-athletes who have been offered an NLI by a Division I or II school and who meet the academic and eligibility requirements can participate.

So, why should you consider the early signing period? First, it can provide a sense of relief to know that you have secured a spot with your desired school and team. It can also take the pressure off the remaining months of your senior year, allowing you to focus on academics and athletics without the added stress of the college application process. Additionally, early signing can help you avoid being recruited by other schools, since once you sign with one school, you're off the market for other schools.

However, the decision to sign early should not be taken lightly. It's important to make sure that it's the right fit for you before signing, and you should carefully consider the academic and athletic aspects of the school before making your decision. You should also make sure to fully understand the NLI, which is a binding agreement between you and the school, and consult with your family and coaches before signing.

In conclusion, the early signing period is a helpful tool for high school student-athletes who have already made their college decision and want to secure their spot on a team as soon as possible. But it's important to remember the restrictions and possible consequences of signing early, and to consult with trusted mentors before making a decision. As you navigate the college application process and all its different components, remember that knowledge is power, and the more informed you are, the better the outcome will be.