The most crucial piece of information we can share is no matter your level of ability or experience; every swimmer has the opportunity to swim in college. It does not matter if you are an athlete with two years of high school swimming experience or an Olympic Trials Qualifier with 8+ plus years competing at the highest level. With an open mind, hard work, and constant communication, each athlete can swim in college.
College Recruiting for CAC Swimmers
This page is dedicated to helping CAC Swimmers find a College/University program that meets their needs both academically and athletically. Below are useful tips and information regarding the recruiting process and links to various websites that can be helpful to finding the ideal fit for each swimmer.
Information for Parents
As a parent, you know your child better than anyone else. You also know what financial resources you can provide your child prior to any support that is offered. Academic and athletic scholarships are often available, but are never guaranteed, so it's important that you are honest with your child and with the coaches you are speaking with throughout this process. College coaches are a great resource for scholarship opportunities available at their respective school. Ask questions early in the process so all available opportunities are on the table.
Your swimmer may have a different list of priorities when looking for a college/university. Encourage open conversations throughout the recruiting process with your athlete. Their options and interests will change along the way and they need guidance from their most valuable support system.
The coaching staff is also a valuable resource as they have connections with school and coaches across the country. As your swimmer narrows down his/her list, take the time to review with the coaches to ensure various factors are considered.
Your swimmer may have a different list of priorities when looking for a college/university. Encourage open conversations throughout the recruiting process with your athlete. Their options and interests will change along the way and they need guidance from their most valuable support system.
The coaching staff is also a valuable resource as they have connections with school and coaches across the country. As your swimmer narrows down his/her list, take the time to review with the coaches to ensure various factors are considered.
Information for Athletes
The college recruiting process is exciting but can also be overwhelming and stressful at times. Open dialogue with parents, coaches, and friends who have/are going through the recruiting process can be incredibly valuable. Below are several factors to consider when beginning the search for the perfect school.
- Location – region of the country, proximity to home, and climate.
- Academic – workload, majors offered, post grad opportunities
- Cost – what is the cost to the family when all scholarships are offered.
- Size – is the school body on campus large, medium or small.
- Coach and facilities – will the working relationship be productive
- Training philosophy of the program
- College Atmosphere – does the college and surroundings offer what the athlete desires?
- Big City vs. Small College town
- Type of Team – Men’s only, Women’s only, Combine
- Team Environment - Social Setting, team unity, and team personality.
Things to Remember through Recruiting Process
- Keep logbook of notes, dates, and summaries of each conversation with coaches.
- Prioritize what you are looking for: swim, academics, weather, fun, other activities, etc.
- Check team and school websites (www.collegeswimming.com).
- Be honest!
- Interviews on recruiting trips are important - be prepared.
- Go through NCAA clearinghouse for eligibility.
- Refer all unknown questions to your group coach.
- Do your research before making a decision.
- Save all pertaining websites in "Internet Favorites" for quick access.
