1. Let coaches know you are interested in their school. Contact them by the end of your junior year or the beginning of your senior year in high school.

(b) Send a schedule of your matches. Let the coach know where and when they may see you play.

(c) Inquire as to the coach’s desire to see a film or videotape. Have two copies available to mail to your top two choices of schools. If you need the copy back immediately, let the coach know.

(d) Be as personal as possible. Find out who the coach is and use their name in any correspondence.

(e) Type all correspondence neatly. Do not use carbons or low grade copies.

(f) Tell the coach your strengths.

(g) Ask for general academic information and if you think you know your major then ask for more specific information about that major. Insure that the school you finally select will provide you with a quality educational program.

NOTE: Playing statistics may not be particularly helpful to coaches in evaluating your skills.

2. Learn the recruiting rules of the various collegiate governing bodies such as the: NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA. Some conferences have restrictions that apply only to their member institutions. It is important to protect yourself. Some coaches do not adhere to the rules all the time. You cannot afford to jeopardize your career by not knowing the regulations.

3. Learn the recruiting and eligibility rules of your State High School Athletic Assoc. Each state has its rules. Addresses and information are available through your high school counselor.

4. Don’t limit yourself. Examine a number of schools. Remember that college recruiting is a two-way process. Even though you want to attend a certain school, that school may feel that you won’t fit into their program. Regardless of an institution’s size, the opportunities for travel, competition, friendship, new challenges, and a good education are available in all programs of inter-collegiate athletics.

5. Find out which schools have good volleyball programs and a good reputation in your major academic interests. Ask your camp coaches, high school and club coaches, USAV regional representatives, high school counselor and older friends who have “been there”.

6. Learn about the financial aid programs made available by the schools. Not all schools offer the same types or number of scholarships. Remember that less than 50% of all college athletes are on any type of scholarship. Be prepared for this. Learn about other types of aid available: work study programs, academic grants, need based grants, etc.

NOTE: Some schools (esp. major universities) have extremely demanding programs that require a year-round commitment. Are you a student/athlete who is ready to handle (physically and mentally) this type of program and the accompanying pressures?

8. Prepare yourself physically and mentally. It is obvious that you can’t do anything about your height, but you can control your weight, mental attitude and general conditioning. Don’t get senioritis!!! Education and volleyball are both hard work.

Anything you do to enhance any of these qualities is beneficial. Preparing to audition begins with your first practice or sooner, and should become a way of life.