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Kyle Hockridge

How Canadian Athletes Can Get Recruited Into The NCAA

The NCAA recruitment process can seem overwhelming for Canadian athletes, but with the right approach, you can stand out and get noticed by U.S. college coaches. This guide will help you understand how to navigate the eligibility requirements, create a standout recruitment video, and connect with NCAA coaches.


Understanding NCAA Eligibility Requirements


Before reaching out to any NCAA coach, the first step is ensuring you meet the eligibility requirements for the division you want to play in. The NCAA has specific academic and athletic standards that Canadian athletes must fulfill.


Academic Requirements for Canadian athletes NCAA recruitment


To qualify academically, you need to:


  • Maintain a minimum GPA based on NCAA standards.

  • Complete 16 NCAA-approved core courses (for Division I).

  • Submit SAT or ACT test scores if required by the college.


Important Note:Although the NCAA stopped making the SAT or ACT mandatory in 2020, some colleges may still expect these scores for admission, and specific scholarships may require them. It's a good idea to check what each college and scholarship requires to ensure you meet all the criteria.


Athletic Requirements:


  • You must register with the NCAA Eligibility Center, which will evaluate your academic standing and amateur status.


Here’s a breakdown of the academic eligibility requirements for different NCAA divisions:


NCAA Division

Minimum GPA

Core Courses

SAT/ACT Requirement

Division I

2.3

16

May be required

Division II

2.2

16

May be required

Division III

Varies

Varies

Not Required

Ensuring you meet these standards will help you stay eligible for NCAA recruitment and scholarships.


How to Get Noticed by NCAA Coaches


Meeting eligibility requirements is just the beginning. You need to stand out and get noticed by NCAA coaches, which involves a combination of creating a standout recruitment video, attending showcases, and maintaining communication with coaches.


Creating a Recruitment Video That Stands Out


A well-made recruitment video is one of your best tools to attract attention from NCAA coaches, especially if you're an international athlete. Coaches often don’t have the time to attend every event in person, so your video becomes a critical tool for showcasing your skills.

Here’s what NCAA coaches look for in a recruitment video:


  • Athletic skills: Highlight your strengths and abilities specific to your sport.

  • Game footage: Include key moments from competitive games.

  • Personality and character: Demonstrate leadership qualities and your attitude toward the game.


Priorities for Recruitment Video

Percentage Focused On

Athletic Skills

50%

Game Footage

30%

Personality and Character

20%

Keep your video short (around 5-10 minutes), showcasing your best moments first, and use editing tools like iMovie or Adobe Premiere for a professional finish.



Attending showcases


The Importance of Attending Showcases


Attending U.S. showcases is an effective way to get in front of NCAA coaches. These events give you the opportunity to compete against other talented athletes and build relationships with coaches in person. If traveling to the U.S. for showcases is not feasible, try to attend local Canadian showcases known to attract U.S. scouts.


Contacting Coaches the Right Way


Making contact with coaches early and staying in touch is key to getting recruited. Here’s a suggested timeline for reaching out to NCAA coaches:


Month

Ideal Time to Reach Out (1 = Lowest, 5 = Highest)

Freshman

1

Sophomore

2

Junior

4

Senior

5

Best Practices for Contacting Coaches:


  • Start with an email: Introduce yourself, share your recruitment video, and explain why you're interested in their program.

  • Follow-up consistently: Keep coaches updated on your progress, including game results and academic improvements.

  • Be professional: Your communication should reflect the kind of athlete and student you are.


Avoid These Common Recruitment Mistakes


Even talented athletes can make mistakes that harm their chances of being recruited. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid:


  1. Not preparing academically: NCAA eligibility depends heavily on academics, so staying on top of your grades is essential.

  2. Waiting too long to contact coaches: Reaching out early gives you more time to build relationships with coaches.

  3. Submitting poor-quality recruitment videos: A well-made video can make a significant difference.



Mistake

Percentage of Athletes Affected

Not Preparing Academically

30%

Late Contact with Coaches

25%

Poor Recruitment Video

20%

Missed Deadlines

15%

Overemphasis on Athletics

10%

Avoiding these mistakes can dramatically increase your chances of being recruited.


FAQ Section


  1. How can Canadian athletes apply for NCAA scholarships?

    • You can apply through the NCAA Eligibility Center, and work with your school to submit the necessary documents.

  2. When should I start reaching out to NCAA coaches?

    • Start contacting coaches in your junior year of high school.

  3. What makes a good recruitment video for NCAA coaches?

    • Highlight your athletic skills, include game highlights, and show leadership qualities.

  4. Do NCAA coaches recruit internationally?

    • Yes, NCAA coaches actively recruit international athletes, including Canadians.

  5. What are the NCAA academic eligibility requirements?

    • Division I requires a minimum GPA of 2.3, 16 core courses, and possibly SAT/ACT scores.


Personal Story: A Canadian Athlete’s Journey to the NCAA


Consider the example of Colin, a Canadian soccer player who began his recruitment journey in his junior year. Through a well-crafted recruitment video, consistent communication with coaches, and solid academic preparation, Colin was able to secure a spot at Daemen University. His success story highlights the importance of preparation and persistence.


Conclusion


Getting recruited by the NCAA as a Canadian athlete is a challenging but achievable goal. By understanding the eligibility requirements, creating a standout recruitment video, attending showcases, and avoiding common mistakes, you can increase your chances of success. Ready to start your NCAA journey? Schedule a consultation with us today and let us guide you through the process.

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