College Golf Recruiting Guide

Freshman & Sophomore Years

• Focus on academics and maintain high GPA (3.5+ recommended)
• Begin serious golf training and tournament play
• Research potential college programs
• Create initial player profile and tournament resume
• Understand NCAA eligibility requirements

Junior Year (Critical Period)

• September 1st: Coaches can initiate contact
• Register with NCAA Eligibility Center
• Take SAT/ACT tests (aim for multiple attempts)
• Compete in high-level tournaments
• Begin unofficial visits to college campuses
• Create professional recruitment video

Senior Year

• Complete NCAA eligibility certification
• Take official visits (maximum 5 per sport)
• Negotiate scholarship offers
• Sign National Letter of Intent (early signing: November; regular: April)
• Maintain academic performance

Academic Standards

Core Course Requirements

• 4 years English
• 3 years Math (Algebra I or higher)
• 2 years Natural/Physical Science (1 lab)
• 1 additional year English, Math, or Science
• 2 years Social Science
• 4 years additional core courses

Scoring Averages by Division

NCAA Scholarship Limits

Types of Financial Aid

• Athletic scholarships (partial or full)
• Academic scholarships
• Need-based financial aid
• Merit-based institutional aid
• Combination packages

Essential Components

• Current golf resume with tournament results
• Academic transcript and test scores
• Professional headshot and action photos
• Swing video (down-the-line and face-on)
• Personal statement/cover letter
• Coach and teacher recommendations

Tournament Resume Format

• Tournament name and date
• Final position and score
• Field size and quality
• Course rating and slope
• Highlight major accomplishments

Initial Contact Strategy

• Research programs thoroughly before reaching out
• Send personalized emails, not mass mailings
• Include relevant tournament results and accomplishments
• Express genuine interest in the program
• Follow up appropriately without being pushy

What Coaches Look For

• Consistent scoring and improvement trends
• Quality of competition and tournament fields
• Academic qualifications and character
• Coachability and team-first attitude
• Fit with program culture and values

Unofficial Visits

• No limit on number of visits
• Family pays all expenses
• Can occur any time
• Great for early evaluation
• Schedule with coaches in advance

Official Visits (Division I)

• Maximum 5 visits across all sports
• School pays for transportation, lodging, meals
• 48-hour maximum duration
• Only for serious prospects
• Cannot occur before September 1st of junior year

Questions to Ask During Visits

• Team culture and expectations
• Practice and tournament schedules
• Academic support and requirements
• Scholarship details and duration
• Coaching philosophy and development plans