Only after a tremendous amount of positive interaction with a college coach, a “green light” from a pre-read of your academic credentials from the college’s admissions office (typically on or around July 1st prior to your senior year), and a show of your own interest and potential commitment to that college, will you possibly receive an offer of support. If a verbal offer comes before any of these conditions have been met, you might consider the validity of the offer.

Typically, a coach will ask that you verbally accept that offer within a given timeline. Some coaches will be more flexible, others will not. Some Division I coaches will unofficially make offers of support to recruits as early as in the first few years of high school. College admission offices do not recognize these offers of support, and students and parents should be wary of early offers without a lot of communication with the College Office, your current coach, and the college coach.

As soon as a verbal offer is on the table from a college coach, communicate with your current coaches and the College Office so that they can help you navigate your next steps. Unless you have already discussed your response to an offer, feel confident in not responding immediately. Let the coach know that you are excited, grateful, and that you need to take the time to thoughtfully consider the offer, and to talk with your parents and college counselor.