3 answers
Kelvin
Student
Kansas City, Missouri
1
Question
Asked
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How do I get a scholarship through basketball?
What should I do to help myself get a basketball scholarship? I'm a junior in high school, and I'm afraid I'm running out of time. How can I help myself get potential scholarships and apply for colleges
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3 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
751
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I would consider creating an Athletic Resume and Cover Letter.
The Athletic Resume and Cover Letter, is similar to a job resume and cover letter, except instead of trying out for a job opportunity, you are trying out for a college athletic opportunity.
There are many examples of athletic resumes and cover letters online, and as you will see they emphasize specific skills, like the positions you play, your athletic accomplishments, awards, and academic achievements.
When you complete your athletic resume and cover letter, put it in an envelope, and send it directly to the various college coaches through the postal service mail.
Coaches get thousands of emails, and you want your resume and letter to land right on his desk, so he can see what you have to offer the college program, and how you can help them achieve their goals.
I have used these kinds of athletic resume's and cover letters in assisting junior college students to get into athletics at a four year university. The responses from the coaches have normally been very encouraging and positive, because they rarely get a written letter from a potential student athlete.
The Athletic Resume and Cover Letter, is similar to a job resume and cover letter, except instead of trying out for a job opportunity, you are trying out for a college athletic opportunity.
There are many examples of athletic resumes and cover letters online, and as you will see they emphasize specific skills, like the positions you play, your athletic accomplishments, awards, and academic achievements.
When you complete your athletic resume and cover letter, put it in an envelope, and send it directly to the various college coaches through the postal service mail.
Coaches get thousands of emails, and you want your resume and letter to land right on his desk, so he can see what you have to offer the college program, and how you can help them achieve their goals.
I have used these kinds of athletic resume's and cover letters in assisting junior college students to get into athletics at a four year university. The responses from the coaches have normally been very encouraging and positive, because they rarely get a written letter from a potential student athlete.
D H
Analysts
3
Answers
Hilliard, Ohio
Updated
D’s Answer
Hello Kelvin, Remember, it's always the perfect time to chase a basketball scholarship. By dedicating yourself to daily improvement, showcasing your abilities, and actively communicating with coaches, you can certainly make strides towards your goal.
Consider playing in high-profile games such as high school and AAU leagues, which are often frequented by scouts. This will give you the exposure you need. In addition, creating a compelling highlight reel and sharing it across multiple social media platforms like Hudl, X, Facebook, and Instagram can help you catch the eye of potential recruiters.
Maintaining good grades is also crucial. Coaches are on the lookout for well-rounded individuals who excel both on and off the court. They value GRADES, LEADERSHIP, and TALENT equally.
Consider attending college camps and taking recruiting visits to games to build relationships with coaches. Also, don't hesitate to reach out to coaches directly. Send them your film, stats, and schedule via email.
Remember, every step you take brings you closer to your dream. I hope these suggestions prove useful to you. Best of luck with your future pursuits!
Consider playing in high-profile games such as high school and AAU leagues, which are often frequented by scouts. This will give you the exposure you need. In addition, creating a compelling highlight reel and sharing it across multiple social media platforms like Hudl, X, Facebook, and Instagram can help you catch the eye of potential recruiters.
Maintaining good grades is also crucial. Coaches are on the lookout for well-rounded individuals who excel both on and off the court. They value GRADES, LEADERSHIP, and TALENT equally.
Consider attending college camps and taking recruiting visits to games to build relationships with coaches. Also, don't hesitate to reach out to coaches directly. Send them your film, stats, and schedule via email.
Remember, every step you take brings you closer to your dream. I hope these suggestions prove useful to you. Best of luck with your future pursuits!
Iryna Tam
Writer, copywriter
188
Answers
Hagerstown, Maryland
Updated
Iryna’s Answer
Hi Calvin!
Getting a basketball scholarship is a competitive process, and it's great that you're taking proactive steps as a junior in high school. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you position yourself for basketball scholarships and college applications:
1. Focus on Academics
Maintain Strong Grades: Ensure that you have a solid GPA. Most colleges require a minimum GPA for scholarship eligibility (usually around 2.5-3.0).
Standardized Tests: Consider taking the SAT or ACT early. Aim for scores that meet or exceed the average for the colleges you’re interested in, as good test scores can enhance scholarship opportunities.
2. Enhance Your Basketball Skills
Practice Regularly: Improve your basketball skills through consistent practice. Focus on shooting, dribbling, passing, and defense.
Join a Team: Participate in your school’s basketball team and try to play at a competitive level, such as travel teams, club teams, or summer leagues. Exposure to higher-level competition will help you improve and gain visibility.
3. Get Noticed
Showcase Your Skills: Attend camps, showcases, and tournaments where college coaches are present. This is a great way to demonstrate your skills and get exposure.
Create Highlight Reels: Put together a highlight video showcasing your best plays, skills, and game highlights. Keep it around 3-5 minutes long, focusing on key moments.
4. Build Relationships with Coaches
Communicate with Coaches: Reach out to your current coach and express your interest in pursuing a scholarship. They can provide valuable advice and may have connections with college coaches.
Ask for Recommendations: Request letters of recommendation from coaches or teachers who know you well and can speak to your work ethic and character.
5. Research Colleges and Programs
Identify Potential Schools: Research colleges that have strong basketball programs and scholarship opportunities. Consider schools where your skills match the program's level and competitiveness.
Consider Academic Fit: Look for schools where you meet both athletic and academic criteria. Genuine interest in the school’s academic programs can enhance your scholarship application.
6. Create a Recruitment Profile
Athletic and Academic Profile: Create a profile that includes your statistics, academic achievements, highlight video link, and contact information. Share this with coaches and include it in your recruitment emails.
7. Attend College Camps and Showcases
Participate in College-Sponsored Camps: These camps offer direct exposure to college coaches and provide opportunities to demonstrate your skills in front of them.
Skill Development: Focus on skill improvement during these camps while also networking with coaches and players.
8. Stay Active on Social Media
Use Social Media Wisely: Showcase your basketball journey on platforms like Twitter or Instagram. Highlight your achievements, training sessions, and games to gain visibility.
Follow Coaches and Programs: Engage with coaches and programs on social media by liking and sharing their content.
9. Apply for Scholarships Early
Look for Scholarships: Search for basketball scholarships and athletic scholarships through various platforms and websites dedicated to college financing.
Complete Applications: Be diligent in filling out scholarship applications, meeting deadlines, and submitting any required materials.
10. Prepare for College Recruitment
Be Proactive: Reach out to college coaches to express your interest in their program. Send a personalized email that includes your recruitment profile and highlight video link.
Follow Up: After sending your information, be sure to follow up with the coaches to ensure they received your materials and to express your continued interest.
While the timeline can feel tight, there are many steps you can take to enhance your chances of obtaining a basketball scholarship. Focusing on your academics, improving your basketball skills, attending camps, networking with coaches, and being proactive in your scholarship search will all contribute to your success. Stay dedicated, work hard, and keep a positive mindset throughout the process. Good luck!
Getting a basketball scholarship is a competitive process, and it's great that you're taking proactive steps as a junior in high school. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you position yourself for basketball scholarships and college applications:
1. Focus on Academics
Maintain Strong Grades: Ensure that you have a solid GPA. Most colleges require a minimum GPA for scholarship eligibility (usually around 2.5-3.0).
Standardized Tests: Consider taking the SAT or ACT early. Aim for scores that meet or exceed the average for the colleges you’re interested in, as good test scores can enhance scholarship opportunities.
2. Enhance Your Basketball Skills
Practice Regularly: Improve your basketball skills through consistent practice. Focus on shooting, dribbling, passing, and defense.
Join a Team: Participate in your school’s basketball team and try to play at a competitive level, such as travel teams, club teams, or summer leagues. Exposure to higher-level competition will help you improve and gain visibility.
3. Get Noticed
Showcase Your Skills: Attend camps, showcases, and tournaments where college coaches are present. This is a great way to demonstrate your skills and get exposure.
Create Highlight Reels: Put together a highlight video showcasing your best plays, skills, and game highlights. Keep it around 3-5 minutes long, focusing on key moments.
4. Build Relationships with Coaches
Communicate with Coaches: Reach out to your current coach and express your interest in pursuing a scholarship. They can provide valuable advice and may have connections with college coaches.
Ask for Recommendations: Request letters of recommendation from coaches or teachers who know you well and can speak to your work ethic and character.
5. Research Colleges and Programs
Identify Potential Schools: Research colleges that have strong basketball programs and scholarship opportunities. Consider schools where your skills match the program's level and competitiveness.
Consider Academic Fit: Look for schools where you meet both athletic and academic criteria. Genuine interest in the school’s academic programs can enhance your scholarship application.
6. Create a Recruitment Profile
Athletic and Academic Profile: Create a profile that includes your statistics, academic achievements, highlight video link, and contact information. Share this with coaches and include it in your recruitment emails.
7. Attend College Camps and Showcases
Participate in College-Sponsored Camps: These camps offer direct exposure to college coaches and provide opportunities to demonstrate your skills in front of them.
Skill Development: Focus on skill improvement during these camps while also networking with coaches and players.
8. Stay Active on Social Media
Use Social Media Wisely: Showcase your basketball journey on platforms like Twitter or Instagram. Highlight your achievements, training sessions, and games to gain visibility.
Follow Coaches and Programs: Engage with coaches and programs on social media by liking and sharing their content.
9. Apply for Scholarships Early
Look for Scholarships: Search for basketball scholarships and athletic scholarships through various platforms and websites dedicated to college financing.
Complete Applications: Be diligent in filling out scholarship applications, meeting deadlines, and submitting any required materials.
10. Prepare for College Recruitment
Be Proactive: Reach out to college coaches to express your interest in their program. Send a personalized email that includes your recruitment profile and highlight video link.
Follow Up: After sending your information, be sure to follow up with the coaches to ensure they received your materials and to express your continued interest.
While the timeline can feel tight, there are many steps you can take to enhance your chances of obtaining a basketball scholarship. Focusing on your academics, improving your basketball skills, attending camps, networking with coaches, and being proactive in your scholarship search will all contribute to your success. Stay dedicated, work hard, and keep a positive mindset throughout the process. Good luck!