Dear Student-Athletes & Parents:

I wanted to take a moment to share some information and encourage you to schedule an appointment with me prior to the start of school. At the end of this email, you will find a Google Form which includes a link to schedule a meeting with me. Having said that, please know that I will be sending out passes to meet with student-athletes interested in the recruiting process starting in early September.

I’d like to start by emphasizing that academic achievement is the most critical component of the recruitment process. While you may be an extraordinarily talented athlete, you WILL open more doors if you have a strong academic profile. Coaches want to know that, a) you will be accepted to the school and b) you are eligible for academic merit money. 

Self-reflection should be happening as August winds down. Athletes, communicate with your parents and ask yourselves these questions:

  • Have I reached out to college coaches? If not, why not? There is no time like the present!
  • Should I be doing more?
  • Have I been utilizing Social Media to its fullest potential? 
  • Have I created a skills / highlight film to share with coaches and post on Social Media? 
  • Do I have a major in mind?
  • Do I have a geographic area in mind?
  • Do I have an NCAA Eligibility Center account? Did I register using Option 1 or Option 3?
  • Have I prepared for standardized tests?
  • Have I been to prospect days and if I have, did I send a follow-up “thank you” note to the coaching staff? 

Parents, you should be aware of a component in the college admissions process called demonstrated interest. The recruiting process happens alongside the admissions process, so your son/daughter will have to compete in both arenas. Many colleges consider demonstrated interest when evaluating an application: 

Did the applicant visit the school via an admissions tour? 

Did the student email his / her admissions counselor? 

Did the student open emails? (Yes, this is monitored).

If possible, it is well advised to visit campuses through the admissions office in order to demonstrate interest. In addition to the other subjective components of the college application (letters of rec, essay, resume, etc), demonstrated interest is yet another way for colleges to wholistically evaluate an applicant. 

Please feel free to complete this Google Form if you would like to meet with me prior to the start of school.

If you have coaches requesting transcripts, simply let me know! Also, if coaches are asking for your class schedule, please know they are currently being generated. Attached is a KMHS school profile that explains our curriculum, courses, and academic rigor. You can send it to coaches while the courses are being finalized. Most coaches understand this process and the profile works as an adequate place-holder. 

Lastly, I have attached a document that highlights our student-athletes; we are so proud of – and grateful for – our Firebirds. 

Warmest regards,
Mrs. Jennifer Strauss
Athletics Department
NCAA Coordinator