How has sports recruiting changed?

The recruiting process in college sports is not the same as it used to be for most of the NCAA and NAIA Universities & Colleges for several critical reasons, two of which are: #1 schools don’t have the same sports budgets that they used to have and, #2 coaches rely much more on the “self-recruiting” process and the interest/drive of the potential student athlete. That places a lot more pressure on us as parents to help our kids, just to put them in a position to receive scholarship funding.

Today’s coaches are NOT enamored with the “blue chip” players that show little character. As a result, some average & above average players are being “scholarshipped” into quality programs and being developed into extraordinary players because of their heart and work ethic.
The tools are important but, the coming trend in college athletics, is to lend greater consideration to the character and integrity of today's student athlete.

As a parent, what role will you or should you play in the college recruiting process for your student athlete?

You should be supportive and offer encouragement, wisdom, and a voice of reason. It’s important for parents to recognize the value of goal setting combined with preparation and planning.

MSA will help you in developing relationships with colleges/universities that you have identified an interest in. The next steps involve a process of preparing academically and athletically so your son or daughter will be able to take advantage of this created opportunity. MSA offers you a “step by step” program in advising your family through the “business” of the recruiting process.

When & How should a family start the recruiting process?

It is important to be in a high-school program of some type beginning with the high-school freshman semester. Young players need to comprehend the importance of preparing 3-4 years down the road, thus enhancing their future potential at the college level.

Midwest Sports Advisors offers programs for players beginning their freshman year of high-school , which carries through their senior season. Following a personalized plan of action that is specific to your individual situation and desire, you will immediately be separating yourself from your competition as well as ensuring your success at the next level.
 
What are the "Steps to Success"?

Players should ask themselves a key question as it relates to their goal setting: “Who am I, and what tools make-up my athletic & academic abilities today, and where do I need to be tomorrow?”

At Midwest Sports Advisors we call this “Identifying the Steps to Success.” What this means is that you must first understand the player’s over-all make-up and what you have to work with before deciding how to develop it and eventually where you can realistically present it! By taking inventory, you are collecting data that you will be able to use, develop and apply to your ultimate goal of pursuing academics and athletics at a college that is a realistic fit!

Players, you will want to assess your mental attitude, athletic tools and academic aptitude. Along with this, look at your personal preferences, your social framework and family network.

At Midwest Sports Advisors we know that if you plan & prepare early enough a players, opportunity to continue to the next level is enhanced. Thus, you will have created an edge over your competition.  At Midwest Sports Advisors, we have relationships with nearly 70 Colleges and Universities to ensure a successful search for a college scholarship and rewarding college experience for the student athlete.