Congratulations to all of the athletes who have already committed or signed their NLI for the class of 2014! BeRecruited sat down with several high school athletes who either committed or signed their NLI and asked them about their recruiting experience. We were able to get a sense of what worked well for them, what did not, and what advice they would give to fellow high school athletes.
Reagan Snavely is one high school athlete who offered advice. Snavely, a soon to be 2014 graduate of Timberland High School recently committed to Lindenwood University to play golf. Here is what Snavely had to say about her recruiting experience:
Why did you ultimately choose Lindenwood University?
I chose Lindenwood University for several reasons. Overall, I felt it was the best fit for my golf game. I fit in really well with the other team members and coaches. I felt it was a place where I could go and make a difference on an already strong team. Plus, they have a good academic reputation which is important to me as well.
How old were you when you started the recruiting process and what were the steps you took to begin the recruiting process?
I started receiving questionnaires my freshman and sophomore years which I always filled out. With the help of my parents I started gearing my summer schedule towards college golf the summer between my freshman and sophomore years. Playing courses that were longer and tournaments that were at least two days which helped me build my resume. I started sending emails and my resume out to college coaches early in my junior year.
How did BeRecruited help you make the connection with Lindenwood University?
BeRecruited gave me a central spot for contacts and a place to be contacted. It was encouraging being able to see when coaches were checking out my profile as it helped me narrow my focus.
Who was pivotal in helping you through the recruiting process and why?
My parents were the most helpful through the process. My dad really helped me manage my schedule, track my stats and put my resume together; while my mom got me to my travel tournaments, made sure I had what I needed on the course (snacks and clothing wise) and has always supported me.
What was the most challenging part of the recruiting process, if any?
The most challenging part of the process for me was the end. I hated to tell anyone no or that I wasn’t going to your school. Every coach I met through the process was so nice it was difficult to tell any of them no.
What tips or advice do you have for student-athletes who want to continue their sport in college?
A couple of things. First pick a school that fits you both in athletics and academics because when it comes down to it aceademics are the most important part of the whole thing. Secondly, it was important to realize was that while scores and stats are important, coaches are really looking for other things that are equally important. I found that attitude, dedication and work ethic are all just as important as stats to most of the coaches. In my sport (golf) coaches wanted to see you
score well but they also wanted to see how you did on holes immediately following holes that you messed up on. They wanted to see how you carried yourself, if you stayed positive and bounced back or if you got upset shut down.