How does the college track and field recruiting process work?

I'm considering joining my college's track and field team, but I'm not sure how the recruiting process works. What should I expect, and how can I best prepare to make a good impression?

The college track and field recruiting process usually begins during your junior year of high school, but it can start as early as your sophomore year. Here's a general overview of the steps involved:

1. Compile Your Athletic Resume: You'll want to gather and document all your track and field accomplishments, timings, distances, other relevant stats, current coaches’ contact information, and a list of your tournaments or meets in a neat and succinct manner.

2. Highlight Reel or Performance Footage: A video footage of you at the events can be a great addition to your athletic profile. This gives coaches a sense of what you're like on the field, even if they can't see you in person. Be sure to include crucial moments where you've showcased your skills and abilities.

3. Research: Determine which colleges are a good academic and athletic match for you. Look at the size of the school, type of degree programs offered, location, and the division level of their track and field program.

4. Contact Coaches: Once you've compiled your information and done your research, you'll want to start reaching out to track and field coaches at the colleges you're interested in. Polite, personalized emails with your stats, resume, and any relevant video can work wonders.

5. Remain Proactive: It's important to check in with coaches regularly. If you've made any progress that you're proud of, or had any big wins recently, feel free to let them know.

6. Official and Unofficial Visits: An official visit is where the school pays for you to come out and visit. Each student is allowed five official visits. On an unofficial visit, you cover the costs yourself, but you can go on an unlimited number of these.

Remember, your grades and test scores (if required) are crucial too. While athletic ability might be the "hook", coaches do need to ensure that their athletes can maintain eligibility according to the NCAA (for Div I and II) or NAIA regulations.

Good luck with the recruitment process and your track and field aspirations! You're already showing initiative by asking these questions, and that will serve you well moving forward.