So...if I am reading all this correctly, the recommendations for a kid entering HS who wants to play in college are:
Get bigger, stronger, faster and better!
Be very mindful of school grades and test scores!
Align yourself with a travel team where the coach/program has contacts and credibility at the right competitive level. But, don't worry about winning games. When it comes to selecting the right travel team its not about winning. You really need to be looking for a program that has deep contacts with the college recruiters, works to develop the player, understands what level the player should be playing at and works to get the players in a position to be seen by the proper people. You want to be with the right program by the fall season of Sophomore year.
College camps are a money maker and it only matters if the coaches invited you as a prospect through your HS or travel team.
Don't showcase unless the player has skills to show. Otherwise, it'll just be a waste of $$ and time.
For the most part, the only schools that recruit before the summer after junior year are D1s. Their interest starts (as relevant to position) with FB, 60-yard-dash, pop time, exit velocity, throwing velocity, and player height, those are what make them pay attention, then they look to see if you can play the game. If you don't hit those numbers, then you might as well wait until junior year and the summer after for showcases and camps.
As a parent, it's important that you learn the recruiting ropes, know where the kid's skills fall against their peers and maintain objectivity by getting sound feedback from quality coaches. Parents carry a lot of water during the recruiting process. Get smart, get active in developing a recruiting plan for your son.
High School ball goes fast. It's once in a lifetime. Make sure to enjoy the experience.
