OFFICIAL VISITS

If you are a high school athlete, you’ve probably heard of the term ‘official visit.’ These types of visits refer to athletic recruits visiting NCAA schools, and they can be an essential part of the decision-making process for both student-athletes and college coaches. This blog post will guide you through everything you need to know about official visits, from what they are to how to prepare for them.

1. What is an Official Visit?
An official visit is a trip to a college campus by an athletic prospect, arranged by the school’s athletic department. Official visits are typically conducted during the player’s senior year of high school and are meant to offer the recruit an opportunity to observe the college campus, talk to the coaching staff, and explore the facilities. These visits can be offered to prospects playing D1, D2, and D3 sports.

2. Why are Official Visits Important?
Official visits are critical for student-athletes because they allow recruits to get a better sense of what a college campus is like. During an official visit, recruits have the opportunity to explore the campus, get a feel for the athletic community, and meet with current players and coaches. This firsthand experience can help you determine which school is the right fit for you.

3. How to Prepare for an Official Visit?
Before you plan your visit, you’ll need to have some paperwork in order. To take your official visit, you’ll need to register with the NCAA Eligibility Center and fill out the college’s recruitment questionnaires. Once you have done that, you can begin to plan your visit. Make sure to research the college in advance, including the program’s history, team culture, and coaching staff. You’ll get more out of your visit if you come prepared with thoughtful questions and appear invested in the school and its athletic program.

4. What to Expect During an Official Visit?
During your visit, you can expect to meet with coaches, players, and faculty members. You’ll go on a tour of the campus, be taken around the team’s facilities, and sit in on a team meeting. You’ll also have a chance to talk to your future teammates and coaches, ask any questions you may have, and interact with the surrounding community. Many official visits include games, meals with coaches, and other activities with current players, so you should be prepared to engage in these activities as well.

Official visits are an excellent opportunity for student-athletes to experience college life and get a feel for a prospective athletic program. Before you plan your visit, make sure to research the college and its athletic department, prepare questions, and engage thoughtfully with the school’s community. Be sure to keep an open mind and trust your instincts when choosing a school. Good luck with your visits, and we can’t wait to see where your athletic future takes you!