Student Athletes School Choice

Student athletes have the unique need of counseling in a dual admission process which adds a level of complexity to the whole process.   To start, student athletes must meet NCAA academic and amateurism eligibility – a process that is documented from grade 10 and onwards – in addition to the colleges admissions requirements. D1 and D2 prospects not only must meet minimum GPA requirements, they must take NCAA approved core classes as stipulated in their website for your specific high school.    In addition, the admissions timetable is shifted up with student athletes reaching out to college coaches in 10^th and 11^th grade, attending summer training sessions, and applying ED with video supplements.  

The fact that only 6% of high school athletes play in college (including D3) and that 0.03%-0.5% of high school student athletes become pro should be an eye opener to most.  I would think that the main way that counselor can assist through this process is by having frank conversations with the student and parents about the balance between sports and academics and the alternatives available. If the student were to get injured or lost interest in playing -- would the college in discussion still be of interest?  what major/ careers will the student be going for in that particular college?    Also, the counselor can bring a reality check (along with the school coaches) about the chances of getting into specific sports programs/colleges so that the student develops a well balance college list in terms of academics and sports level.  Once the college list is firmed up, the counselor would help develop a strong admissions package along with the sports supplement.