Everything Student-Athletes and Families Need to Know About Track & Field Recruiting
Track & Field offers student-athletes numerous opportunities to compete at the collegiate level. While performance marks are important, getting recruited involves much more than posting strong times, distances, or heights.
College coaches evaluate athletes based on performance history, event specialization, consistency, academics, and long-term potential.
This guide was created to help families better understand the Track & Field recruiting process and the opportunities available at the collegiate level.
Track & Field Recruiting Process
Step 1: Evaluate Your Current Level
Potential opportunities may include:
- NCAA Division I
- NCAA Division II
- NCAA Division III
- NAIA
- Junior College (JUCO)
Comparing your marks to current collegiate athletes can help identify realistic opportunities.
Step 2: Develop Your Recruiting Profile
At Midwest Collegiate Prospects, we work with athletes and families to develop a detailed recruiting profile that highlights athletic achievements, academic performance, event results, honors, and other information college coaches use during the evaluation process.
Step 3: Gather Athletic Content and Recruiting Materials
Competition results, verified marks, rankings, awards, schedules, and video footage can all help coaches evaluate a prospective recruit.
Midwest Collegiate Prospects helps athletes organize and present the information college coaches are looking for.
Step 4: Contact College Coaches
Student-athletes should actively communicate with coaches by:
- Sharing event results
- Providing updated personal records
- Sending schedules
- Completing recruiting questionnaires
- Following up consistently
Track & Field Recruiting Guidelines
NCAA Division I Track & Field
Division I programs typically recruit athletes who possess:
- Elite performances
- Strong athletic development
- High-level competition experience
- Significant upside
NCAA Division II Track & Field
Coaches often recruit athletes who demonstrate:
- Strong event-specific skills
- Consistent improvement
- Athletic potential
- Coachability
NCAA Division III Track & Field
Division III schools often seek:
- Competitive athletes
- Strong students
- High-character individuals
- Team-oriented competitors
NAIA Track & Field
NAIA programs provide excellent opportunities for athletes seeking both athletic and academic success.
Junior College Track & Field
JUCO programs can provide:
- Additional development
- Increased exposure
- Academic improvement
- Transfer opportunities
Track & Field Scholarships
Potential financial aid opportunities may include:
- Athletic scholarships
- Academic scholarships
- Merit-based awards
- Need-based financial aid
- Institutional grants
Track & Field Camps and Exposure Opportunities
Common opportunities include:
- Elite camps
- Showcase events
- Invitational meets
- Recruiting combines
- College clinics
Finding Track & Field Colleges
When researching schools, families should consider:
- Academic programs
- Coaching staff
- Training facilities
- Geographic location
- Scholarship opportunities
- Team culture
- Cost of attendance
Get Help With Your Track & Field Recruiting Journey
Midwest Collegiate Prospects helps student-athletes create recruiting plans, build exposure, communicate with coaches, and identify college opportunities that fit their goals.