In the world of high school football, choosing the right events to attend can make all the difference in your career. As a parent, it can be overwhelming to navigate the multitude of camps, combines, and showcases available. You want to do all that you can to support your kids, and it can start to feel like one big money grab. It’s crucial to do your research and select events that align with your goals and offer the best opportunities for your child’s exposure and development.
When deciding which events to attend, consider what you hope to achieve. Are you aiming to impress college recruiters, hone your skills, or compete against top talent? Think about whether traveling out of state for events could open up more doors for your child. Or is it just a football vacation disguised as a camp or combine?
Showcases are a valuable opportunity for players to shine, even if they aren’t personally invited. These events allow athletes to showcase their abilities to college coaches and scouts, potentially leading to exciting opportunities. But you should know there are varying degrees to how well they are run. Meaning your son should be mentally prepared to fight for every rep.
It’s essential to carefully weigh the costs and benefits of each event. Consider the level of competition, the exposure your child will receive, and the potential for skill development. By strategically selecting which football events to attend, you can maximize your chances of recruitment and advancement in the sport.
For rising freshmen, focusing on skill development through attending camps can help them secure a spot on their high school team. Rising sophomores can further develop their skills and gain awareness by participating in camps and combines. Juniors should prioritize exposure by attending showcases, camps, and combines with a wide range of schools and division levels present. Seniors should focus on securing offers by attending camps, showcases, and combines hosted by schools that have shown interest, while also targeting events with multiple schools and division levels to increase their chances of getting noticed.
Remember, the key to success in high school football lies in strategic event selection and dedication to skill development. Good luck to all the young athletes out there!
