As we prepare for the Full Prospect forum, Big County Preps talked with area coaches about the importance of athletes taking their standardized tests (SAT and ACT) prior to their senior seasons.
Nearly all of those contacted stressed the importance of maintaining a strong academic record and developing good habits of study before stepping foot onto the college campus, or football field.
Second-year Gaither coach Jason Stokes said the process of completing the necessary requirements is essential to the recruiting process.
“The more they test, the better their scores,” Stokes said. He then added, “Testing early allows you to focus one one particular section of the test. (i.e. Study really hard and take a prep course for the Math section the first time, then do the same for the Reading section the next time you take it).
“Colleges will take your best combined scores.”
Zephyrhills coach Reginald Roberts echoed Stokes’ comments and added his team is always about putting school work first, because that’s what matters in the long run.
“It’s not just a cliche at Zephyrhills, but we really do our best to emphasize academics first,” Roberts said. “I am constantly preaching that their ACT/SAT performance is as good as any Friday night performance. We do not separate a players academics from their athletics.”
Roberts added that while universities look for the athletic talent in a player, it’s also makes them look even more appealing if good test scores, grade point average and overall classroom performance follow them to the next level.
“The complete player takes care of business where it really counts and that is the classroom,” Robert said. “The football field is an extension of the classroom where we support the academic process and have the pleasure to teach and play a little football. Obviously there will be some who really take it serious and others that wish they would have taken it serious when February (signing day) comes every year.”
Wesley Chapel coach Ben Alford has had experience with college scouts passing a good player because they haven’t met the test’s benchmarks.
“Its very important for them to get it passed before senior season now a days. I have had colleges move on from some of my kids because they haven’t passed the test,” Alford said.
He added the recruiting scene has done a 180 degree spin over the last few years and schools want more information earlier.
“Recruiting has changed completely,” Alford said. “You come January (and) they are already looking for their next year recruits. So if you don’t pass the test before November, its tough for you to go to big school.”
FULL PROSPECT FORUM:
Big County Preps invites all of you (parents and players) to come and actively participate in the informational development of your recruitment process and discussion about your athletic and academic future at the collegiate level for no cost whatsoever at Hillsborough High School April 30, 2012 (7:00p-9:30p).
Throughout this week, members of the BCP staff will be highlighting the essential needs for an unsigned student athlete to make it in the college environment with a new topic discussed each day.
To register for the event, CLICK HERE
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