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6 replies

Several questions (SAT scores, showcases, etc.)

M monstor34410+ posts
I'm a LHP and I will be going to the Headfirst Showcase for the first time in Richmond, Virginia. I do not have many substantial scores as of yet (only 1 SAT subject score) because I have not started junior year yet. I have a few questions regarding both Headfirst in addition to some general recruiting questions:

1) Will schools be uninterested in me simply because I don't have many scores to show as of yet?

2) Do coaches pay attention to where I attend high school? I have a 3.95 GPA at a very competitive high school where maintaining a 3.7 GPA is more difficult than maintaining a 4.0 at most other high schools, perhaps knowing where I attend school will show coaches that I am a dedicated student?

3) Do they care at all about subject test scores?

4) How academically qualified must I be in order to be qualified at a school like Harvard or MIT? Additionally, I read in a NYTimes article that most people at Headfirst are quickly crossed off coaches' lists because they do not meet academic qualifications. Is this true? I read in the same article that the average Headfirst player has a 1300 SAT out of 1600.

5) Will being very highly academically-qualified help a lot in the recruiting process? I have been taking practice tests this summer and I've been consistently scoring around 2350 out of 2400. Given a few more months for preparation, I can probably earn a perfect SAT score, as well as earn a total of 3 perfect subject test scores (I already have an 800 in 1 subject). When I go to Headfirst in 2010, I will have scores to show. Will coaches more actively pursue me and do I need to be as athletically capable as a typical recruit? I am mostly looking at Ivy League schools and MIT.
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B brod100+ posts
OK - here's the scoop. Coaches are ONLY interested in players who are academically eligible. You obviously have to take the correct tests, and get the qualifying scores, which are embarassingly lower than the ones you list in your posting.

In fact, this is the first post I've read that doesn't brag about baseball prowess and stats.

But for a smart kid, shouldn't you know that you can check college websites for class profiles, test scores, etc.?

Your test scores will not substitute for lack of baseball ability in the recruiting process, but they will help.
TRhitTRhit10,000+ posts
Answers by your numbered questions:

1--- NO

2--- Yes -- pay attention to where you attend HS--the high academic schools know the strong academic HS programs from the weak

3-- this varies from college to college

4-- What players need at a showcase does not mean the same for many schools-- the high academic schools are looking at 2100 plus in the three part and upper percentage GPA


If you have the grades you say you have or expect to have you will be fine but in many cases a perfect SAT may not mean admission to the school you want--
M monstor34410+ posts
quote:

But for a smart kid, shouldn't you know that you can check college websites for class profiles, test scores, etc.?


Yes, I've already researched some of the scores and grades necessary for the schools I'm interested. But athletic recruits are held at substantially lower academic standards from what I've heard. My main concern isn't that I will not meet the academic qualifications, but rather if having scores way above the norm for recruited athletes will garner more interest from coaches.
B Blprkfrnks100+ posts
quote:
Originally posted by monstor344:
quote:

But for a smart kid, shouldn't you know that you can check college websites for class profiles, test scores, etc.?


Yes, I've already researched some of the scores and grades necessary for the schools I'm interested. But athletic recruits are held at substantially lower academic standards from what I've heard. My main concern isn't that I will not meet the academic qualifications, but rather if having scores way above the norm for recruited athletes will garner more interest from coaches.


Sure the academics will be a plus, but they won't recruit you unless they think you can play D1. As TRhit stated, they don't "substantilly" lower the academic standards for baseball players (maybe more for Football or Basketball). There are a lot of smart baseball players doing the same thing you are.

One other thing that you are already likely aware of, the ivies want you taking the toughest classes your school offers. Your strength of schedule is really important to them, as is class rank.
Last edited by Blprkfrnks
08Dad08Dad1,000+ posts
I would not assume that you are going to get any significant admissions breaks as a baseball player...
especially from the better academic institutions. Sure there might be an exception made - but why make the coach use up his tips (favors) on you?

Sounds like you are on a solid academic path - and that will stand you in good stead in the long run. Keep up the good work!!!

As for great academics being an advantage, I would say it won't hurt - but it won't make up for a lack of talent.

The coach's thought process goes something like this:
1) Can he play and at my school's level?
2) Can he help my team (e.g. do I need a player like him)?
3) Can I get him in?
4) Do I think he will stay eligible?

Even Einstein wouldn't get recruited if he didn't pass hurdles 1 and 2. On the other hand, once you get past 1 and 2, the academics will make 3 and 4 much easier.

Good luck to you! Have fun at the showcase...

08dad

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