Monday, October 19, 2009

Why should I sign up for the NCAA Clearinghouse?

By Coach Chris Berg

A lot of families ask me, "When should I sign for the NCAA Clearinghouse?" The BEST time to sign up for the NCAA Clearinghouse is once you have completed your Junior year in high school.

Some of you may be asking, "What is the NCAA Clearinghouse?" Well the NCAA website provides us with a great definition:

NCAA Clearinghouse - Students who plan to play Division I or Division II sports during their freshman year of college must register with the NCAA during their senior year of high school. This registration process certifies that the student has met certain academic and other standards, as required under NCAA guidelines in order to compete and receive athletic-based financial aid.

Division I and Division II coaches are sorting through hundreds, if not thousands, of players every year trying to find the best talent academically and athletically. The Clearinghouse is an easy way for a coach to know that a student-athlete has met basic academic requirements that qualify he/she to play at the collegiate level as a freshman.

Signing up for the NCAA Clearinghouse is easy. You can sign up at www.ncaaclearinghouse.net

REAL CLEARINGHOUSE STORY

Awhile ago, I heard a story about a young man that earned a full ride basketball scholarship to a school in Northern California. The kid was excited to get on campus the fall of his freshman year. As he was preparing for fall ball, the coach happened to make sure his recruits where all qualified and prepared to contribute their freshman year. Well, this young man, who comes for a very prestigious high school did not register for the Clearinghouse his senior year. The college coach flipped out, and it almost cost this athlete his scholarship...even though he as a qualifier.

If you want to play your freshman year, it is critical that you are registered with the Clearinghouse. There is typically a fee involved, and there are ways you can get it subsidized.

As you can see, it is very important to get yourself registered with the NCAA Clearinghouse at the end of your Junior year. Study hard and keep your grades up...that is the KEY! - 16887

About the Author:

No comments: