The Two Pathways to an Ivy League Track and Field Roster
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00:02 Introduction to Ivy League Track and Field Recruitment
00:13 Understanding the Walk-On Student Athlete
01:28 The Role of Recruiting Standards
02:34 The Process of Walking onto the Team
04:21 Getting onto a Team with a Recruiting Slot
04:42 How to Get onto a Roster Despite Falling Short of Standards
06:00 The Impact of Unexpected Circumstances on Recruitment
07:53 The Importance of Keeping Your Options Open
09:30 The Secret Sauce: Making Yourself Valuable to the Coach
After coaching in the Ivy League for 7 years, and competing as an Ivy League Track & Field athlete, I am excited to democratize this information that would otherwise only be accessible to those who can afford a private consultant. While I can’t boost your GPA or help with your SAT score, I can share everything I learned about the admissions process for athletes. We are giving this information away for free, but if you would like to support the project you can donate here. Either way, I hope this info helps you find your way onto an Ivy League Track & Field team. We hope to see you at our clinic!
Gaining a spot on an Ivy League cross country or track & field roster is a challenging but attainable goal for many aspiring student-athletes. There are two primary pathways: securing a spot with coach support (a recruiting slot) or without it (as a walk-on). This article will delve into both options, outlining the intricacies of the recruiting process and offering valuable insights for those aiming to compete at the highest level of collegiate athletics.
The Walk-On Path: Earning a Spot Through Self-Initiative
The term "walk-on" refers to a student-athlete who gains admission to a university independently, without direct athletic recruitment support. This doesn't necessarily mean they haven't been in contact with the coaching staff. Some walk-ons maintain communication with coaches for extended periods, even years, but may not initially meet the established recruiting standards or receive a support slot.
Regardless of whether a student-athlete enters as a recruited athlete or a walk-on, the end result is the same: they are part of the team. Walk-ons may have engaged with the coach through various means, including campus visits, team meetings, or even contacting the coach after being accepted to the university. The latter scenario is often a welcome surprise for coaches, as they gain a potentially valuable athlete without expending recruiting resources.
These post-acceptance contacts can be particularly beneficial if the walk-on has significantly improved their performance during their senior year. Ivy League recruiting standards are typically based on junior year results, as the early admissions timeline often precedes the completion of the senior year track season. While cross-country results from the fall of senior year are available before early decisions, track performances are not. Therefore, a student-athlete whose senior year performance surpasses recruiting standards can become a highly attractive walk-on prospect.
The Walk-On Tryout Process:
When a student-athlete expresses interest in walking onto an Ivy League team, coaches are generally expected to offer a tryout. This usually involves a two-week trial period during which the athlete demonstrates their abilities. It's crucial for prospective walk-ons to proactively inquire about the specific standards they need to meet to make the team.
If the athlete meets the coach's expectations, they will likely be added to the roster. However, roster limitations can sometimes prevent a walk-on from joining the team. In such cases, it's advisable to inquire about alternative ways to demonstrate value, such as training independently and competing in home meets. Performing well in these situations can potentially open a path to joining the team later.
Some coaches employ a more comprehensive approach, holding team-wide tryouts each year. These tryouts may involve specific workouts for different event groups, with all athletes, including current team members and walk-on hopefuls, competing for roster spots.
Securing a Spot with a Recruiting Slot: Coach-Supported Admission
The second pathway to an Ivy League roster involves securing a recruiting slot. This signifies that the coach has identified the athlete as a valuable addition to the team and is willing to use their influence to increase their chances of admission. Typically, athletes who receive recruiting slots have met or exceeded the established recruiting standards. However, there are exceptions.
Circumstances Leading to a Recruiting Slot Despite Falling Short of Standards:
Several factors can lead to an athlete receiving a recruiting slot even if they don't fully meet the standard athletic benchmarks:
Exceptional Academic Profile: A student with an exceptionally high academic index (a metric combining GPA and standardized test scores) can be a valuable asset to an Ivy League institution. Even if their athletic performance is slightly below the desired level, their academic strength can make them a desirable recruit.
Shifting Recruiting Landscape: If a coach's top recruits choose to attend other universities, athletes who were initially lower on the priority list may suddenly become viable options and receive recruiting slots.
Unexpected Changes in Coaching Staff: If a coach leaves a program, the allocation of recruiting slots can shift. This can create unexpected opportunities for athletes who were previously not considered for a slot. For example, if a distance coach leaves and several slots open up, a jumper who was previously told there were no available slots might suddenly be offered one.
The Importance of Expanding Horizons:
If an athlete's performance falls below the recruiting standards of their dream Ivy League school, it's crucial to broaden their horizons. Considering other Ivy League institutions, NESCAC schools, or other Division I programs can significantly increase their chances of finding a suitable program. This is especially important given the unpredictable nature of recruiting, where slots can open up unexpectedly.
The "Secret Sauce": Intangibles and Team Value
While athletic performance and academic achievement are crucial, a key factor that can significantly influence a coach's decision is the athlete's overall value to the team. This encompasses intangible qualities such as:
Positive Attitude: A coach prioritizes athletes who will contribute positively to the team environment. A strong work ethic, coachability, and a positive attitude can outweigh slight differences in athletic ability.
Communication Skills: Effective communication with coaches is essential. Demonstrating genuine interest, asking thoughtful questions, and maintaining consistent contact can make a lasting impression.
Commitment to Team Success: Coaches seek athletes who are dedicated to the team's overall success, not just their individual performance.
These intangible qualities can differentiate an athlete from others with similar or even slightly superior athletic abilities. Coaches prioritize building a cohesive and successful team, and athletes who demonstrate these qualities are more likely to be seen as valuable additions.
Gaining a spot on an Ivy League cross country or track & field roster requires a combination of athletic ability, academic achievement, and strategic navigation of the recruiting process. Whether pursuing the walk-on path or seeking a recruiting slot, understanding the nuances of the system, maintaining open communication with coaches, and demonstrating a strong commitment to team success are essential for maximizing one's chances of achieving this challenging but rewarding goal.
