The Basics of Lacrosse Recruiting - From Blue Chip 225

One of the topics we receive the most questions on is recruiting.  Over the next few days we will be posting articles and information on this topic.  Please let us know your specific questions for the we can address them.

Today's article covers the basics.  Rather than recreating the wheel we have found a great overview put together by the coaches of Blue Chip 225. 

The next article will cover phone calls, emails, calendars and campus visits

The BR Staff

The Game Rules of Lacrosse Recruiting

(From Blue Chip 225)

Whether it's lacrosse or Scrabble, the first thing you do in any game is learn the rules.  If you don't know the rules your chances of winning are pretty slim.

This is as true for college sports recruiting as it is for any other endeavor subject to rules and regulations.  The entire process of recruiting is structured and controlled by the rules of the NCAA.  Knowing the rules helps you know what to do and what to expect along the way.  Know the rules - win the game. 

When Does It Start? . . . 

The rules for college sports recruiting identify you as a "prospective student-athlete" when you enter 9th grade or even before if any college gives you, your family or friends, any benefits it does not give its students generally.  So, generally, if you're a freshmen you are part of the game of recruiting under the NCAA recruiting regulations.  Click here for a complete glossary of recruiting terms.

Who Can Talk To Whom When About What?

There are very specific rules that define when and how coaches can talk to families and/or players, and when and how players and families can communicate with coaches. 

There are three sets of rules that operate 

• Your grade 
• Time of year

• The division of the college

Recruiting Overview For Freshmen -  More info

 If you're a freshmen, coaches from DII and DIII programs can send you written materials; they can call you without limitation, and you may call them at your own expense.  You may make unofficial visits to DII or DIII colleges. You may NOT have in-person contact with college coaches from any division other than a greeting.  

Recruiting Overview For Sophomores - More Info

For DI: As a sophomore you may receive brochures, NCAA materials, and non-athletics recruiting materials. You may call coaches at your own expense, but the coach cannot call you.  You are allowed no off-campus contact, but you may make unofficial visits (except during "dead" periods."  DII and DIII communication is the same as for Freshmen. 

Recruiting Overview For Juniors - More Info

For DI: After September 1 of your Junior year coaches can send your written recruiting materials, and can call you after July 1st.  You are allowed to have off-campus contact with coaches after July 1st, and you can make an unlimited number of unofficial visits (except during "dead" periods). DII and DIII communication is the same as for Freshmen. 

Recruiting Overview For Seniors - More Info

For DI:  Two things are different once you start your Senior year.  Beginning on the first day of class you can make one official visit to each of up to five colleges.  During this year college coaches are limited to a maximum of three contacts with you or your family.  There is a maximum of seven evaluations and contacts by coaches until you sign a National Letter of Intent, a written offer of admission and/or financial aid OR you make a financial deposit. After that there is no limit to the number of contacts and evaluations you may have.   DII and DIII communication is the same as for Freshmen.