Expert: Thom Brooks - 2/25/2008

Question
Thom,

I've noticed that you continue to encourage prospective athletes to never give
up and contact coaches as to their intent to walk on. Seemingly, great advice,
except when a college and their coaches give you the run around and vague
answers as to try out date and "it's all a numbers game." To your knowledge,
are D1 teams required to provide a reasonable chance for a full time student
(not looking for any scholarship) an opportunity to try out? This has not been
my son's experience.

Thanks for you response  

Answer
Jeffery, hello!

No.  The colleges can choose to pick who they want to allow on their field.  You have no rights.  If the college and coach are giving your son the run-around, it may be time to move on to a college that will show respect to his skill.  If he's locked into that particular college, then he needs to get a personal interview with the assistants, the head coach, the scouts, the media, or anyone that will hear his view.  If he has talent, the coaches are dumb for not responding.  If they have plenty of players for his position, then they should tell you so he can move to another plan.  Many coaches are professional, but maybe your son is trying to communicate with one that lacks that level of class.  

So, your son needs to critique himself to see if he has caused them to give him the cold shoulder.  If he knows he's a quality player, and has the grades, he should be on the field when they offer tryouts.

Have him contact any of the new and old players.  They will know when the dates/schedules are.  The local TV , newspaper and radio will be able to give dates.  

He could mail a Youtube or other video, or stats, to the coaches but if they will not return calls, (they do have restrictions when), then it's clear your son is not being considered.  

Sorry for your frustration.  If he is quality and continues to pursue, someone will see that they're missing a great player.  

Take care,

Thom Brooks