Many of the top Level 10 gymnasts are getting ready to travel to Mississippi this week for Nationals and NIT. The big question is ......how important is this meet in the recruiting process? 

I remember twenty years ago, recruiting at JO Nationals was extremely important. It might be the first and only time you could see the athletes you were hoping to recruit. We did not have access to video footage online and sometimes had to wait for gymnasts to mail us VHS tapes of their routines. Nationals was often the only opportunity to see the best Level10’s. Hitting at Regionals and making it to Nationals was crucial to being recruited. There was no NIT. So all the great Level 10’s that had a rough Regional meet were scrambling to be seen in person.

When the internet and youtube came alive, it changed everything! Especially for the coaches who did not have the budget to travel to clubs all over the country. Today, coaches have often watched all your meets, highlights and skills you are working on in the gym before you ever get to Nationals or NIT.

So what are the college coaches looking for while they attend these meets:

*They are excited to watch the seniors that are coming to their teams in a few months

*They are looking for new recruits to fill in spots that may have opened up

*They are watching your attitude. Do you help others. How do you work with your
coach. How do you respond when things don’t go your way. Are you a team player

* Coaches are looking for “heart” and “passion” for the sport


It was always fun as a college coach to think you may come across that one gymnast that nobody knew about. But thats not the case so much anymore. Many times the coaches see this meet as just another opportunity to watch you do your routines, but in reality they already know who you are and what you can do. I believe it takes the pressure off JO Nationals and NIT as being so crucial.

If you have a great meet, it solidifies you as a potential recruit. If you have a rough day its probably not going to make or brake the coaches decision to recruit you.  They have usually seen your scores and routines for the last two seasons and know you can do better. 

Try to enjoy the meet! You have worked hard all year and this is your chance to compete with the best.  It is your reward for your dedication and sacrifice. Oh yes and try to have fun!!!

We don’t need more strength or more ability or greater opportunity. What we need is to use what we have. -Basil Walsh 

Jill Hicks is the founder of JH Consulting which helps gymanst and parents find the right college fit both academically and athletically www.jhicksconsulting.com