D1 commitments and the Rise of Sport Prep Schools

IMG Academy, Prolific Prep, and Montverde are some of the many college preparatory schools across the United States. 

In recent years, the college sports scene has changed dramatically, especially at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division 1 level. The growing number of athletes attending prep schools before transitioning to college sports has increased; thus, the recruiting process and the commitment to a Division 1 program may have a significant impact on Athletes. 

Additionally, prep schools give student-athletes more exposure to college recruiters and scouts, which is one of the main reasons they choose them. The strong athletic programs at prep schools put players against some of the top teams in the nation. Athletes at regular high schools don’t receive this type of exposure because they are limited to their local division and don’t travel around to play at tournaments. Traditional high schools have less competitive programs and focus more on school rather than sports. Their athletic directors also don’t have the connections to recruiters like those at prep schools. 

Furthermore, prep schools take part in national tournaments and showcases at the highest competition, allowing an athlete to display their skills. This type of exposure and opportunities that are provided in prep schools can be a game-changer for an athlete whose high school team may not have this type of attention.  

Many high schools however don’t offer the mental preparation that prep schools do. While the athletic part is important, the mental challenges that come along with committing to a Division 1 school are often overlooked. For a lot of high school athletes, going straight to college competition can be overwhelming. Traditional high schools don’t provide the environment that prepares athletes for the jump while prep schools offer athletes a gap year to take time off and rest and recover physically and mentally. With this additional year, it allows athletes to focus on themselves without the pressure of college recruitment and stress. In regular high schools, students are expected to balance sport and academics which lead to burnout. In contrast, prep schools give time and space to balance out school with sports, making them more prepared when playing at the Division 1 level.

The recruitment process has changed as a result of the growth of prep schools, especially for athletes trying to go to a Division 1 school. As more athletes start to choose prep schools to gain more publicity before going to college, competition has skyrocketed and become more intense when trying to commit. Traditional high schools may not have access to the coaching, competition and visibility that prep schools provide. These athletes at regular high schools now have a higher competition and stress of school when trying to commit to the college sports level.

Because of the rise of prep schools, athletes at typical high schools now must work harder to get recognized through programs and activities outside of their school teams. Ultimately, prep schools are always one step ahead when providing an advantage for athletes trying to get attention and trying to commit to college.