Playing Water Polo in College
Every year, the Santa Cruz Water Polo Club hosts an in-person talk for players and parents to explore the path to playing water polo at the collegiate level. This presentation serves as a valuable resource for aspiring college athletes, providing practical advice and strategic guidance on navigating the recruitment process. The presentation slides are shared with parents to learn how to take the next step toward collegiate water polo. Contact us if you did not receive a copy.
Presentation Overview
- Options for Playing Post-High School: A breakdown of the different levels of collegiate competition, including NCAA Division I, II, III, NAIA, CCCAA, and Club programs, detailing the number of men’s and women’s programs available at each level.
- Scholarships and Financial Aid: Only Division I and II schools offer athletic scholarships, and the importance of academic performance in securing financial aid, especially for Division III and private schools.
- Differences Between High School and College Water Polo: The increased time commitment, intensity of practice, and differences in roster sizes and game schedules.
- Academics and Requirements: Academic expectations for top water polo programs, with examples of GPA and test score requirements for Ivy League and other competitive institutions.
- Recruitment Process: Detailed guidance on how to get recruited, including contacting coaches, creating athletic profiles, and the importance of persistence in maintaining communication with schools.
- Timeline for High School Players: A step-by-step timeline for recruitment, outlining key tasks and milestones from freshman through senior year, including creating game films, reaching out to coaches, and visiting schools.
- Rules for Talking to Coaches: The NCAA rules regarding when coaches can contact players and explains the timeline for recruiting trips.
