If you know that you would like to play college golf, you likely understand the importance of visiting the colleges and programs in which you are interested. Visiting colleges and golf coaches can be a great way for you to get noticed. It can also be a good way for both you and the coach to make certain that you and the college are a good fit. Here is what you should keep in mind about visiting college golf coaches.
When is the right time to visit college golf coaches?
Before you begin your sophomore year of high school, it is a good idea to make a list of the colleges in which you are interested. You should then reach out to the college golf coaches by sending your golf resume, an introductory letter, your grades and a short video that shows your shots with wedges, long irons and drivers. Make certain to thank the coaches for taking the time to look at your materials.
You are able to make as many unofficial visits as you’d like, and it makes sense to try to visit multiple programs so that you can get an idea of what campus life is like at each university and a better sense of the golf program. Official visits, in which the college pays for most of your expenses, are limited. You can only complete a maximum of five official visits with one at each school. These visits cannot be conducted until after the first day of your senior year of high school. Before an official visit, you must submit your transcripts, ACT or SAT scores and a verification that you have registered with the NCAA eligibility center.
How to make a good first impression
Before you visit a college and meet with a golf coach, it is important for you to prepare so that you can make the best impression possible. In general, most college golf coaches prefer players who are able to speak for themselves. This makes it important for you to do more of the talking than your parents. You should speak with confidence about your future and be able to explain your plan for success. Have some questions prepared to ask the coaches about their programs. Make certain to dress professionally, and try to anticipate questions that you might be asked. Before you visit, make certain that you complete research about the college and its golf program.
Types of golf stats to discuss
The stats that you have achieved while competing at state and junior golf tournaments are much more important than talking about your handicap while playing at your home golf club. You should be prepared to talk about your state or USGA handicap index and your stroke average from high school. You should be prepared to discuss your tournament highlights, including the number of players, the name and location of the tournament, the course rating, the distance and your finish.
How to maintain a professional demeanor
Making a good impression on college golf coaches will require you to conduct yourself in a professional manner. You should dress nicely without being overdressed. When you meet the coach, maintain eye contact and make certain to introduce yourself and shake the coach’s hand. Be prepared to answer difficult questions that you might be asked. It is best for your parents to excuse themselves after they meet the coach so that you can communicate directly with the coach. Be confident in your abilities, but remember to maintain some humility. Let the coach know that you are seriously interested in his or her program. When the visit comes to a conclusion, thank the coach for taking the time to meet with you and restate your interest in the college and the golf program. Make certain to send a thank you letter after your visit.
Research to complete before your visit
Conducting research prior to your visit is vital. You should research the college as well as the program. You should be realistic and only target schools at which you have a good chance of acceptance. Make certain that your grades and your standardized test scores fit the school and that your golf stats are competitive with the program that you are considering.
When and if you should ask for scholarship money
In order to get a golf scholarship, it is important that you have strong grades and test scores. You should also have strong results from USGA tournaments and state tournaments. Golf scholarships are awarded on an equivalency basis. This means that the coaches have a specific amount of money that they have to divide among their recruits. If you have a strong academic and golf record, you should ask about golf scholarships when you complete your official visits. You should also keep in mind that you will likely not receive a full ride scholarship for golf.
What you should include in a follow-up letter
After you have completed a visit, make sure to send a follow-up letter. In your letter, you should thank the coach for taking the time to meet with you and to review your materials. You should restate your interest in the golf program and quickly remind the coach why you would be a good fit for the program.
Visiting colleges and golf programs can be very exciting. When you prepare for your visits well and work to make a strong impression, you may find the program and college that is the best fit for you.