Need Insight on DII Track and Field Schools

Hello, fellow future collegiates! I'm pondering on joining a Division II track and field school but feeling overwhelmed with the options out there. Can anyone shed some light on what uniquely sets these schools apart?

Each Division II track and field college has its own unique selling points based on its location, coaching staff, team culture, academic programs, and various other factors. Here are few general aspects to consider:

1. Coaching Staff: Some schools have coaches who are known for their expertise in specific events or their ability to nurture athletes. You might want to check the team's performance over the past few years. This would give you a sense of the coaching staff's effectiveness.

2. Team Culture: Each track and field team has a different environment and culture. Some might be more competitive while others could prioritize a friendly team atmosphere. Reaching out to current athletes, attending meet-ups, or even checking out their social media pages could give you a better sense of the team culture.

3. Academic Compatibility: Stay mindful of the academic programs offered by the colleges, since you'll be there as a student-athlete. Make sure the colleges have strong programs that align with your interests and career aspirations.

4. Facilities: The facilities offered by colleges, like a state-of-the-art track, a well-equipped gym, physiotherapists, nutritionists, etc, varies from college to college. If these are priorities for you, compare the offerings of different colleges.

5. Location: The location of the colleges might influence your experience as an athlete. For instance, colleges in warmer locations could have outdoor training advantages.

6. Financial Aid/Scholarship: The type of scholarships and the amount of financial aid that they provide to student-athletes varies greatly. You might want to look into that, keeping in mind that DII colleges can offer both athletic and academic scholarships.

7. Size of the Program: The size of the track and field program, i.e., how many athletes they carry on the roster, can matter. Larger teams may offer more competition internally but also may mean less individual attention from coaches.

8. Alumni Network: Look at where alumni of the program end up. Do a lot go pro? Do they seem to be successful in the professional world? This could provide insights about post-college opportunities.

9. Balance: Division II schools tend to offer a balance of athletics and academics which can often lead to a more well-rounded college experience.

Remember that finding a college that is right for you is not just about the athletic program. Consider your academic and career goals, your comfort with the college's environment, and your fit with the college's cultural and community ethos. You want to find a school where you'll be happy should you be unable to run due to injury or decisions to focus on other activities.