Camps - Showcases - Tournaments

Pros, Cons, and Things to Consider

When reaching high school age and looking to play at the next level, discussions turn to college camps, showcases, and tournaments. Prior to the big field, these provide little benefit as college coaches are typically not looking at younger players. With the current recruiting rules, coaches cannot begin recruiting discussions until the summer after sophomore year of high school. Division 1 schools can’t have those discussions until August 1 prior to junior year. D2 and D3 can start earlier - June 15th after sophomore year.

To have a successful recruiting effort, players need to plan for exposure. Prior to looking for exposure, complete a self-assessment to determine where you will likely have success as a player and academic student. Being realistic here is extremely tough. Have someone give you an impartial evaluation, compare your metrics to the division you are considering, and make a list of schools that interest you.

Communication is key. Making contact with coaches to let them know your plans puts you ahead of the other attendees. Your name will not get lost on the list if they know you are attending. For showcases, it is important to know which coaches plan to attend. You can also try to confirm the list. Let them know you plan to attend, and ask if they are still planning to attend.

Showcases

There are numerous showcases, and their target schools can vary. Some specialize with the high-academic schools, and others are more regional with attendance. The traditional showcase will have players run through the typical drills to capture metrics, and afterward separate into teams for simulated games. The games are usually set to go through 3 outs or 5 batters, with pitchers usually going for two innings or so. Depending upon the size of the showcase, there may be games on multiple days. Some of the larger showcases stream their activities as well. Showcases can be pricey, and recruiter attendees can vary in number, division, and locations. Do your homework on the showcases. Try to confirm number of attendees, which colleges will be attending, and the format. Looking at previous year attendees can help. Some of the other “invite” type showcases are usually well-attended by the colleges. PBR, PG, and others hold these types of showcases several times per year.

College Camps

Attending camps can be very cost effective if they are on your targe list. The key advantage for these camps is knowing that your target school coaches will be there. Other nearby schools are also usually in attendance. Most “prospect” camps follow a format very similar to a showcase, but sometimes include a bit more hands-on instruction. Camps usually provide time for campus and facility tours, which is a great way to determine if a school may be a fit for you. Again, always make sure that the coaches know you’ll be there.

Tournaments

Playing tournaments can be an effective way to gain exposure, but it really depends upon the actual tournament, which teams/players are there, and where those tournaments are located. The national level tournaments typically draw a strong recruiter and scout attendance. If you are not on a truly competitive team at the national level, you may not see that many. Tournaments can definitely be hit or miss with recruiters and scouts. Tournaments that take place on college campuses usually get some views from the home coaches, but scouts and recruiters may be elsewhere. Tournaments are fun, but their effectiveness can vary. Some venues tend to draw more recruiters than others bases upon convenience, and where they can see more games. Not to leave any out, but at least on the East Coast, East Cobb, Lakepoint, Hoover, Palm Beach, and Jupiter tend to draw larger crowds. To attend the big tournaments can get expensive. Between travel, hotels, meals, and not to mention the team costs and fees, it can generate significant cost. The big, national level tournaments can also last several days to a week, requiring time off of work also.

Everyone’s path is different, and these options can be effective to gain exposure. These events are typically geared for high school age. Attending one at a younger age is a good idea just to gain an understanding of the process. That helps with handling the nerves at future events. Most of all, enjoy the journey!! Having a budget and plan will help you enjoy it. I’ll leave you with quote that someone posted as I was going through this process with my son. “Be good and be seen!”