Signing Date Has Passed…..What Now?

First of all congratulations to the many Chris Sailer Kicking Students that were fortunate to sign scholarships to play college football.  Some committed early on, such as Matt Wogan to Oregon, and some were awarded scholarship offers late, such as Nicholas O’Toole to West Virginia, this past week!  Getting a college scholarship is a huge accomplishment and I congratulate you all.

However, like we have always said, when it comes to kickers, punters, and long snappers, it is NEVER too late.  Yes, another wave of recruiting has passed, but another is now set to begin.  Signing date has passed, so you are asking the question, “What Now”?  It is not time to cry, to panic, to quit. It is time to focus knowing that only the top 5-10% or so of specialists have made their college choices.  Over the course of the next several months, college coaches will need to find specialists.  They will begin to panic and if you have been keeping up your contacts, they will come looking for you.  You will find a home.

Yes, most D1A Scholarships have been awarded and signed.  That’s okay.  Some will still be available based on numbers, ineligibility, and injuries.  Many D1AA, D2, and D3 scholarships are now available.  Reach out to schools of all levels that fit your needs both academically and socially.  There is money out there.  You will find a school to play football that will ultimately land you a college degree.

Here is my advice:

1. Create a huge email list of college coaches.  Send them an email saying this… “Dear Coach, my name is (fill in the blank).  I have a strong interest to play college football for your program.  I would love the opportunity to compete and win a job on your team.  If possible, can I visit the campus in the near future and show you that my desire to play for you in sincere.  Please take a minute to view my highlight video link and brief bio showing my qualifications.  Contact Chris Sailer, my kicking coach, as a reference (818-209-8921).  Looking forward to hearing from you.

The key is not to ask for a scholarship.  Ask for an opportunity to play.

2. Make calls.  Say the same thing as above.  If the coach doesn’t answer, state the above on their voice mail.

3. Make visits.  Get yourself on their campus.  Try to meet coaches in person.  Show them that your interest in sincere.

4. If there is a school that you have already been accepted to academically, use this to your advantage.  Let the coach know because it makes his life a whole lot easier.

Recruiting is a process.  It takes time.  But the reward at the end of all the hard work in well worth it.  Believe me when I say that there is a great school out there for you where you can thrive academically, socially, and athletically.  Time to get to work and find the right fit.  Many doors will continue to open and shut.  Do not get frustrated.  Stick to the plan.  There is light at the end of the tunnel if you stay the course.

Looking forward to the receiving your commitment emails.  I will be the first to congratulate you!

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