So…Everything has changed since our original “I want to pole vault in college…” blog post back in September 2021.

Okay—maybe not everything—but the landscape of college recruiting, scholarships, and team rosters has shifted significantly. So here’s an updated version to help athletes and parents navigate it all with confidence.

If you don’t feel like reading the whole thing, here’s the short version: get into a consistent training routine, find great coaching (like we offer at RISE Pole Vault 😉), and focus on becoming the best vaulter you can be. Talent still opens doors—and the better you are, the easier this whole process becomes.

College Pole Vaulting Recruiting Guide (2025–26 Update)

College pole vaulting is more accessible than many people think. With hundreds of collegiate track & field programs across multiple divisions, there’s likely a school that fits your talent and goals. This updated guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the recruiting process for pole vaulters – from scholarship rules and performance standards to contacting coaches, using social media, and interpreting offers – all updated for the 2025–26 school year. Let’s jump in!

NCAA Division I – The Highest Level

Competition & Performance: NCAA Division I (DI) is the most competitive level. For men’s pole vault, DI recruits often jump around 15 feet at minimum, with top programs looking for 16–18+ foot vaulters. On the women’s side, DI recruits typically vault around 12 feet or higher, with top programs seeking 13–14+ feet . (Remember, these are general ranges – every program is different, and exceptional athletes can sometimes find a spot with slightly lower marks.)

Scholarships: As of 2025–26, DI scholarship rules have undergone a major change. In the past, a fully funded DI track & field team had a cap on scholarships (men’s teams split 12.6 scholarships, women’s teams 18, across the whole roster) . Starting in 2025, those sport-specific scholarship caps are being eliminated as part of an NCAA settlement . Instead, programs can offer scholarships to every athlete on the roster if they choose, without a fixed limit . However, to keep things fair, the NCAA is introducing roster size limits. For track & field, a DI team’s roster will be capped at 45 athletes (for both men’s and women’s teams) . In other words, a DI track program could award up to 45 track and field scholarships – a huge increase from the old limits . All DI sports are now “equivalency” sports, meaning scholarships can be partial or full as the coach sees fit .

What does this mean for you? More scholarship money could be available in DI than ever before, but roster spots are still limited. Coaches can’t simply stockpile dozens of walk-ons; they have to fit the team within the 45-person roster. In practice, top programs might extend athletic aid to more vaulters than before, but they’ll still be selective about who makes the team. If you’re aiming for DI, you’ll need to be among the best vaulters that program is recruiting, or demonstrate the potential to develop into a scorer at the conference/national level.

Walk-Ons: In the past, many DI teams carried large rosters with lots of walk-ons (non-scholarship athletes) because scholarship spots were limited. With the new rules, this dynamic shifts. Coaches now have the freedom to give scholarships to more athletes, but the 45-person roster cap means they might carry fewer total athletes. A “preferred walk-on” (an athlete recruited to join the team without scholarship) will still exist, but there may be fewer purely unrecruited walk-on opportunities. Each program will handle this differently. Make sure to ask coaches about their plans for walk-ons under the new roster rules . If a school only plans to carry, say, two pole vaulters on a 45-person roster and they’ve all been recruited, even a high jumper meeting past walk-on standards might not get a spot if the roster is full .

Recruiting Timeline: Division I recruiting starts relatively late in high school compared to other sports. Under NCAA rules, DI coaches can’t have recruiting conversations (calls, recruiting texts, etc.) with you until June 15 after your sophomore year of high school . Before that date, if you call a DI coach, they can’t discuss recruiting or make any offers. Likewise, unofficial visits (visiting a campus on your own) that involve meeting the coaching staff are not permitted until August 1 of your junior year . Official visits – where the school pays for your travel/meal and you tour with the team – also can begin August 1 of junior year .

Official Visits: A big recent change: Prospective DI athletes are no longer limited to five official visits total. As of 2023, you can take unlimited official visits to different schools (but maximum one visit per school) . This means you could, in theory, visit every campus on your list officially if invited. In practice, you’ll still need to be selective (there’s only so much time and you’ll only get invited if there’s genuine interest). But don’t feel pressured to limit yourself to five – that cap is gone. Remember, official visits in DI are typically offered to recruits the coaches are very serious about, usually during fall of senior year or summer before senior year.

DI Recruiting Periods: Starting junior year, coaches can actively reach out and recruit you. There are defined contact periods (when coaches can visit you or watch you compete) and dead periods (when no in-person contact is allowed). For example, most of the fall and spring are “contact periods” for track, while certain dates like around the November National Signing Day or championship meets are “dead periods” . These calendars change slightly each year, but generally, summer/fall of junior year through senior year is prime recruiting time for DI track. During contact periods, coaches might come to your meets or invite you for visits. During dead periods, communication moves to phone/email. (Note: Division I coaches can view your online profiles or get info from your high school/club coach even before they can talk to you – so it’s good to put yourself on their radar early, even if they can’t reply yet.)

NCAA Division II – Competitive and Flexible

Competition & Performance: NCAA Division II (DII) programs are also competitive, though overall performance standards are a bit lower than top DI programs. Many DII men’s teams look for pole vaulters in roughly the 14–16+ foot range, and women’s teams often seek vaulters in the 11’6”–13’0” range . The very best DII vaulters can be comparable to DI – for instance, DII national champions might clear 17’+ for men or  thirteen feet for women – but DII programs also accommodate solid athletes who might not quite hit DI marks. If you’re vaulting around 15’ as a male or 12’ as a female by junior/senior year, many DII programs would consider you a strong recruit.

Scholarships: Division II track & field is still governed by scholarship limits (the new NCAA settlement changes are focused on Division I). A fully funded DII track program can offer up to 12.6 scholarships for men’s track (including cross-country) and 12.6 for women’s track . Those scholarships are equivalency, meaning they can be split into partial awards among many athletes. Not all DII programs are fully funded – some might have fewer scholarships to give due to budget. DII schools also tend to be smaller, so athletic budgets vary. If fully funded, a DII coach might parcel that 12.6 in creative ways (e.g., a few athletes on 50% scholarships, many on 10–30%, etc.). Bottom line: Partial scholarships are the norm at DII, just like DI. Full rides are rare but possible for exceptional athletes (especially if you can contribute in multiple events).

One big difference in DII: there’s no new roster cap like DI has. There isn’t an NCAA-imposed limit of 45 in DII, so coaches have flexibility in team size. Some DII teams keep rosters smaller due to budget or staffing, while others might welcome many walk-ons. This means if you’re a borderline scholarship athlete, a DII coach might still have the freedom to invite you onto the team as a walk-on without worrying about a roster limit – a slight advantage over the new DI environment.

Recruiting Timeline: DII recruiting rules are a bit more relaxed than DI, and coaches often start slightly later. Officially, DII coaches can begin communicating (calling, texting, emailing you) starting June 15 before your junior year (which is effectively the same timeline as DI) . However, unofficial visits to DII schools can happen at any time – there’s no restriction on meeting coaches on campus in sophomore year, for example, the way DI has . In practice, many DII coaches wait to see which athletes DI programs are picking up. It’s not uncommon for DII recruiting to heat up later in junior year and into senior year, after some athletes realize DI might not be in the cards or when DI signees trickle down.

Official Visits: DII allows official visits starting June 15 before junior year , which is even earlier than DI’s junior-year August 1 date. That said, very few track athletes take official visits that early. Most DII official visits will occur during senior year of high school. DII schools were part of the NLI (National Letter of Intent) program like DI, and with the NLI’s recent elimination, DII recruits now sign the same type of athletic aid agreements as DI recruits (more on that later) . DII had similar signing periods to DI (initial signing in November, then spring), and those still apply in terms of when scholarships can be formally offered and signed.

Scholarship Strategy: Many DII coaches try to entice strong recruits by pointing out that you could be a big fish in a slightly smaller pond. For example, an athlete who might be a benchwarmer at a big DI might become a conference champion at DII – and coaches may offer more scholarship money accordingly. If your marks are on the cusp of DI, don’t overlook DII. You might find a scholarship package that makes college more affordable and still compete at a high level. In fact, you might get more scholarship dollars at a DII school where you’d be a top performer than at a DI where you’d be a role player .

Walk-Ons: DII teams can and do take walk-ons. Because there’s no set roster cap, if you meet the team’s standards and the coach has room (and the school can accept you academically), you have a shot. The key is the coach’s discretion and resources – even without a formal cap, a coach might limit roster size for manageability. Check if the program publishes “walk-on standards.” Often, DII programs will list performance standards needed to join the team as a non-scholarship athlete. If not published, ask the coach what marks you’d need to demonstrate to earn a walk-on spot.

NCAA Division III – No Scholarships, But Lots of Opportunities

Competition & Performance: Division III (DIII) includes a wide range of athletic levels, from programs that could beat some DII teams to very small teams focused on participation. Generally, performance marks for recruits are lower than DII/D1. A men’s pole vaulter in DIII might be jumping in the 13–15+ foot range in high school, and a women’s vaulter perhaps around 9–12 feet, depending on the program’s competitiveness . Top DIII pole vaulters, however, can be very talented – the best DIII vaulters clear 16+ feet (men) or around 13 feet (women) by college. What this means: if you’re a solid high school vaulter but not quite hitting the DI/DII marks, you can likely find a DIII team to compete for, and you could develop into a strong collegiate vaulter there.

Scholarships: DIII does not offer athletic scholarships. This is a fundamental DIII philosophy – athletics at this level are treated like extracurricular activities. However, that doesn’t mean college is full price. DIII schools often offer merit scholarships or need-based financial aid, and coaches can sometimes help good athletes get academic grants (within the rules). While you won’t get an official “athletic scholarship,” a coach may support your admissions application or point you toward institutional scholarships you qualify for. The key is to have your academics in order. Good grades and test scores can dramatically improve your aid package at a DIII college.

Recruiting Timeline: Division III has the most relaxed recruiting rules. There are no date restrictions on when DIII coaches can contact prospective athletes – they can call or email you at any time (even sophomore or freshman year). In practice, though, DIII coaches usually start later than DI/DII. They often begin serious recruiting in the spring of junior year or even early senior year . DIII coaches know they’re recruiting student-athletes who may have been hoping for athletic money at DI/DII, so they tend to wait to see who might still be available. Official visits at DIII are allowed starting January 1 of junior year , and there’s no limit on how many you can take or a cap on the number of schools (since no athletic aid is involved). Unofficial visits can happen anytime – you can always visit campus and meet the coach, as long as you’ve arranged it.

The DIII Recruiting Experience: Expect DIII coaches to emphasize the fit of the school – academics, campus life, etc. – as much as the athletics. They know you aren’t coming for a scholarship, so they’ll “sell” the overall student-athlete experience. If you reach out to a DIII coach and you meet their standards, you might find they are very enthusiastic; many DIII programs actively welcome recruits and will roster a larger squad (since there’s no athletic scholarship cost). Still, competitive DIII teams have roster limits of their own (often self-imposed or limited by facility size), so don’t assume every team will take any interested athlete. You generally need to meet some performance standard. For example, a DIII might require men to have cleared around 13’ or 14’ and women ~10’ or so to be seriously considered – but there are many programs, and some have lower or higher benchmarks. Always check each program’s roster and results: if your marks would place you near the bottom of their current roster, you might still walk on, but if you’re far below, consider looking at other schools where you’d be a better fit.

No NLI, But Commitments: Since there’s no athletic scholarship, there’s no Letter of Intent in Division III. When you decide on a DIII school, typically you apply through the normal admissions process (often with the coach advocating for your acceptance if you’re a key recruit). Some DIII conferences or schools use a “celebratory signing form” so you can have a signing day photo, but it’s not binding. Until you put in a tuition deposit, you’re not officially committed. Keep the communication clear with DIII coaches – if you verbally commit to them, they will assume you’re coming, and it could impact their recruiting of others.

NAIA – An Alternative Path with Fewer Restrictions

Competition & Performance: The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) is a separate association from the NCAA, mostly consisting of smaller colleges and universities. In track and field, the top NAIA programs can be quite competitive – think in the ballpark of DII level. Pole vault standards in NAIA often resemble those of DIII or mid-level DII programs. For men, vaulting in the 14’0”–15’6” range in high school can attract NAIA interest (with the very top NAIA vaulters clearing around 16’). For women, roughly 10’0”–12’0” in high school is a common recruit range . Just like other levels, there’s variety: some NAIA schools have athletes hitting 13’+ (women) or 17’ (men), whereas others might welcome a beginner around 11’ (women) or 13’ (men) who has potential.

Scholarships: NAIA schools do offer athletic scholarships for track and field. The scholarship limits are similar to DII – an NAIA women’s or men’s track team can have the equivalent of 12 scholarships to distribute (if fully funded) . These are equivalency scholarships, meaning they can be split into partial awards. Not every NAIA program is fully funded, though; some might have fewer than 12. NAIA coaches often combine athletic aid with academic or need-based aid. One advantage in NAIA is that their scholarship rules and eligibility requirements can be a bit more flexible than NCAA. For example, NAIA programs might more freely stack an academic scholarship on top of an athletic scholarship to create an attractive package for you.

Recruiting Rules: The NAIA has no recruiting calendar restrictions. Coaches can contact student-athletes at any time, even freshman or sophomore year . There are no “dead periods” or quiet periods mandated by the NAIA. Essentially, NAIA recruiting is a lot more like regular college admissions – year-round and straightforward. In practice, NAIA coaches also tend to recruit later than NCAA DI/DII; they often wait to see which athletes might not sign with NCAA schools . But if you’re interested in an NAIA program, you can initiate contact early – there’s no rule against it. Coaches will be happy to hear from a strong student-athlete interested in their school.

Visits: Official visits in NAIA are not limited by a central rule like the NCAA. An NAIA school can pay for you to visit campus if they choose, and there isn’t a strict limit on number of visits. It’s more about the individual school’s budget and discretion. Unofficial visits, of course, can happen anytime as well. Because NAIA doesn’t have the same bureaucracy, the recruiting process can be simpler – often it’s a matter of a coach making you an offer (athletic scholarship + admission) and you deciding, without formal signing day hoopla. NAIA does have an “eligibility center” for academics, but it’s simpler (basically you need to meet two of three criteria: a minimum test score, a minimum GPA, or class rank threshold to be initially eligible).

Why NAIA? NAIA schools can be a great fit for athletes who want a smaller college environment and the chance to compete for championships. If you’re a solid high school vaulter but not getting the NCAA looks you hoped for, NAIA can offer a second chance – often with scholarship money on the table. Additionally, NAIA had an early start on NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) freedoms – they allowed athletes to earn from endorsements before the NCAA did – so the culture can be very player-friendly. One thing to note: NAIA track programs sometimes have fewer athletes and facilities than large NCAA programs, but you may get more personal attention and a starring role. It’s all about what environment you thrive in.

NJCAA – The Junior College Route

What is NJCAA? The National Junior College Athletic Association governs two-year college athletics (community colleges, junior colleges). Junior colleges (JUCOs) can be a stepping stone: athletes often spend one or two years there and then transfer to an NCAA or NAIA school. For pole vaulters, a junior college could be a great option if you need to improve your marks, recover from an injury, or boost your academic record before moving to a four-year school.

Competition & Performance: NJCAA track & field has Divisions I, II, and III (like the NCAA, D1 and D2 juco offer scholarships, D3 juco does not). Many strong athletes who don’t go NCAA out of high school compete in JUCO, so the top end can be quite high. It’s not unusual to see JUCO national champions in pole vault jumping 16’–17’ for men or 12’–13’ for women – those athletes often get recruited to D1 universities afterward. But junior college rosters also include less developed athletes; for example, a male vaulter jumping 13’ or a female vaulter at 9’–10’ might join a JUCO team to develop. The range is wide. Essentially, if you have at least some experience in pole vault and show potential (and meet academic entry requirements for the college), many JUCO programs will give you an opportunity.

Scholarships: Junior colleges can offer athletic scholarships, often quite generously. At the NJCAA Division I level, a track & field team can typically offer up to 20 full scholarships (covering tuition, room, board, etc.) to athletes . NJCAA Division II programs can offer scholarships that cover tuition and fees (usually not room/board), and NJCAA DIII programs offer no athletic scholarships. Because junior colleges are only two-year and often have lower tuition, even a partial scholarship can go a long way. If you’re considering JUCO, check what division they compete in and what costs they cover. Many JUCO athletes receive either full rides or significant aid, especially in Division I JUCO programs.

Recruiting & Transfers: Recruiting at the JUCO level is very informal. There are no strict contact rules – a junior college coach can talk to you whenever, even if you’re a high school underclassman . Often, junior colleges recruit locally due to limited recruiting budgets. Don’t be surprised if you need to reach out first. If you’re not getting four-year offers you want, proactively contact JUCO coaches – they will be happy to hear from an athlete interested in their program. Also note, NCAA has made transferring from JUCO to NCAA easier in recent years (for instance, you don’t lose eligibility and you can transfer without sitting out, as long as you meet academic requirements). In fact, as of 2024, NCAA four-year schools allow immediate eligibility even for multiple transfers, provided you leave in good academic standing . This means you could go JUCO for a year or two, transfer to an NCAA school, and not worry about a penalty. JUCO can thus be a brilliant springboard to get to your dream DI program if you bloom a little later or need more experience.

Academic Considerations: To go from high school to an NJCAA program, you generally need to graduate high school – the academic entry barrier is usually lower than NCAA initial eligibility requirements. However, to move from JUCO to NCAA, you’ll need to have completed a certain number of credits and maintain a minimum GPA (varies by how long you stay; after two years you typically need an associate degree or specific credit distribution). It’s important to do well in classes at JUCO so you can transfer smoothly. The NJCAA Eligibility rules also limit how many seasons you can compete, so treat JUCO seriously – it’s college athletics, just compressed.

The JUCO Experience: Junior colleges vary widely. Some have excellent facilities and full-time coaches; others might have a part-time coach and no indoor track. The upside is you’ll get to compete right away and potentially rack up good marks. You might also save money – two years of JUCO can be much cheaper than a four-year school, especially with scholarship aid, and then you transfer your credits. Culturally, JUCO teams often have a mix of athletes with different stories: some may have been DI recruits who needed academic improvement, others late bloomers. If you go this route, stay focused on development and academics so you can transfer to a four-year program that’s a good fit for your final two years.

How High Do You Need to Jump? Performance Benchmarks

No matter the division, your personal record (PR) in the pole vault is a key factor in recruiting. Coaches recruit ability and potential – and in track and field, marks speak loudly. Here’s a rough breakdown of high school pole vault marks and how they align with collegiate levels:

• NCAA Division I: Men ~15’0″ or higher to get looks from many programs; the strongest programs are after 16’+ guys (the national elites approaching 17’–18’). Women ~12’0″ or higher for many DI teams, with top programs focused on 13’+ vaulters . Keep in mind DI rosters will have a range – a smaller DI program might take a male vaulter at 14’6″ or 15’ if they see potential, especially now with more scholarship flexibility, but to earn scholarship money you’ll likely need to be contributing at a conference level (often mid-15’s and up for men, 12’s for women).

• NCAA Division II: Men ~14’0″–16’0″ in high school can find opportunities, with around 15’ often being a solid mark for a partial scholarship at a good program . Women ~11’6″–13’0″; a 12-foot female vaulter would be very valuable for many DII teams . If you’re a bit under these, you might still walk on or be recruited if the coach sees upside (for example, a gymnast-turned-vaulter with only one year of experience at 13’ might get recruited on potential).

• NCAA Division III: Men ~13’0″–15’0″; Women ~10’0″–12’0″ are common recruiting ranges . Many DIII schools will roster vaulters who are in the 13-14’ range for men or around 10-11’ for women and help them improve. To score at DIII conference or nationals, you’ll eventually want to exceed those marks, but as a recruit you don’t necessarily need to be there yet.

• NAIA: Roughly similar to DIII in ranges: Men ~14’0″–15’6″, Women ~10’0″–12’0″ for many programs . The top NAIA programs might look more like DII (a male vaulter 16’+ would dominate NAIA nationals, for instance, and indeed such athletes exist). But NAIA also has some developing athletes on rosters.

• NJCAA: If you have any competitive mark (even below the above ranges) and solid fundamentals, there’s likely a junior college that will take you. For top JUCOs, Men ~14’–16’+ and Women ~10’–12’+ are typical among their better athletes. But plenty of JUCO vaulters start college under 14’ or 10’ and improve. The focus at JUCO is on development and then moving on.

These benchmarks are guidelines, not hard rules . Every program is unique. Some DI schools might prioritize other events and have lower standards for vault if they just need to fill a spot; some DIII schools might have a history of great vaulters and higher preferred standards. Use these numbers to gauge where you might fit. It’s a good idea to look up the conference championship results for schools you’re interested in – see what height typically scores points. If your PR would’ve scored at their conference meet (e.g., top 8 or top 3), that program will likely value you highly . If you’re below those marks, you might be looking at walking on or targeting a different level. And remember: coaches do consider your potential, not just current PR. If you’re relatively new to pole vault or had a growth spurt, let coaches know – they might see a 14’ jumper who could become a 16’ jumper with the right training.

Scholarships, Roster Spots, and How They Work (2025–26)

Understanding how scholarships are allocated in track and field will help you make sense of offers and roster spots. Here are the key points, updated for recent changes:

• Partial vs. Full Scholarships: Track and field (including pole vault) is an equivalency sport at all college levels. This means coaches can divide scholarship money among multiple athletes. A full scholarship (covering tuition, fees, room, board, etc.) is typically reserved for only the most exceptional athletes or someone who fills multiple team needs. The vast majority of college pole vaulters on scholarship receive a partial scholarship . For example, a coach might offer 20% of costs, or 50%, or maybe just books. It’s even common at big DI programs for a top recruit to get something like 60% – as in one real example, a 16’7″ high school vaulter (multiple state champion) received a 60% offer from a strong SEC program . Meanwhile, the nation’s top program only offered him a “books” scholarship (a token amount) . Why? That top program was loaded with talent and didn’t need to invest heavily in that recruit. Takeaway: Don’t be shocked if your scholarship offer is partial. It’s normal. A 100% full ride in track is rare and usually means you’re a potential NCAA champion or you’re also valuable in another event.

• Scholarship Limits by Division: As discussed earlier, scholarship limits vary:

  • NCAA DI – New for 2025: No set team cap on scholarships; up to 45 roster spots can be scholarship athletes in track . However, schools are not required to fund all 45. Many programs will still operate under budget constraints, so a program might still only fund, say, the equivalent of 12–18 full scholarships (as before) spread out, or they might increase funding modestly. Wealthier schools could decide to fund more now that it’s allowed. This change theoretically doubles the scholarship opportunities for women’s track & field nationwide (from 18 to 45 per team maximum) , and similarly increases it for men (12.6 to 45). It’s a huge shift, but it will vary by school how much they take advantage of it.

  • NCAA DII – 12.6 per team (men and women each) is the maximum, status quo .

  • NCAA DIII – 0 athletic scholarships (but other aid available).

  • NAIA – 12 per team (men and women each) if fully funded .

  • NJCAA – up to 20 per team at the Division I juco level (and typically fewer or none at DII/DIII juco).

  Keep in mind these are maximums. Not every program is fully funded to these limits. Some DI/DII programs might have less due to school policy or budget. Always ask coaches, in a polite way, how close to fully funded their program is – it affects how many scholarships they can offer.

• Roster Limits: A new concept for 2025 in NCAA DI is the roster limit. For track & field, that number is 45 (as mentioned). It means the team (for each gender) cannot have more than 45 athletes eligible for competition. This includes scholarship and walk-on athletes. (For reference, many DI track teams previously carried well over 50 or 60 athletes when including walk-ons, so this may force cuts or smaller future recruiting classes at some schools) . The roster cap is intended to prevent powerhouse programs from hoarding huge rosters of athletes now that scholarship caps are gone . Division II and III have no national roster caps, nor do NAIA or NJCAA – it’s a DI-only rule change. If you’re talking to DI coaches, be aware that some may be navigating tough decisions on which athletes count toward that 45 limit. This could affect multi-event athletes (e.g., if you only pole vault vs. if you also could contribute in heptathlon or sprints) or cross country distance runners (who might count on a separate XC roster). For pole vault, specifically, coaches will likely reserve roster spots for those vaulters who they believe can score at conference or be competitive in meets. They may carry fewer developmental project vaulters than before. Again, ask each coach about their roster outlook. It’s a fair question to say, “Do you anticipate any limits on roster spots for vaulters in my class?”

• Walk-On Spots: A recruited walk-on (often called a “preferred walk-on”) is an athlete the coach wants on the team, but who isn’t receiving athletic scholarship money. If you’re offered this, it means you have a team spot – you’ll be on the roster, practice with the team, etc., just like scholarship athletes, only you’re paying your way or using academic aid. An unrecruited walk-on is someone who gets into the school on their own and tries out for the team without a prior roster spot guarantee. With the new DI rules, unrecruited walk-ons will be rare at the top level because of roster caps. Most DI coaches will fill their 45 spots with recruited athletes (scholarship or not). In DII, DIII, NAIA, coaches might allow more open tryouts if roster size isn’t an issue. Generally, if you’re interested in walking on, contact the coach ahead of time. If you meet the team’s standard, the coach can often support your admission or at least give you an honest assessment of your chances to make the team. As the Rise Pole Vault experts advise, a good rule of thumb is if your current marks could score points at the school’s conference meet, you have a solid case to ask for a walk-on spot . If not, you might still try, but the odds are tougher.

• NCAA House Settlement Context: The scholarship/roster changes in DI stem from a legal settlement of a case called House v. NCAA (and related cases) . While you don’t need all the legal details, be aware that these changes are new and evolving. As of spring 2025, the implementation was being finalized (with discussions of possibly phasing in roster limits to avoid current athletes being cut immediately) . By the 2025–26 school year, it’s expected that schools that opt in to the settlement terms will be following the no-cap and roster limit rules. It’s a landscape shift – some colleges may suddenly offer a bit more scholarship money to attract recruits, while others might stick to their usual approach. Keep an eye on news or ask college coaches directly, as some DI programs might publicly announce if they plan to increase their scholarship spending or roster size. The key takeaway: the value of a roster spot is higher than ever. If a DI coach is offering you a spot (even with little or no athletic money), it means they’re using one of a limited number of team slots on you – that’s a sign of strong interest.

• Academic Aid and Stacking: Regardless of division, always consider your academic merit scholarships and financial aid in the equation. NCAA rules allow academic scholarships to be awarded without counting against team limits if you meet certain GPA/test score criteria. NAIA is similar in that academic awards don’t count against athletic aid if you’re above certain academic benchmarks. This means a coach might encourage you to boost your test scores or GPA to help you get more academic money – effectively supplementing any athletic scholarship. For example, if a school costs $30k/year and you earn a $15k academic scholarship due to your grades, the coach might only need to give you a 50% athletic scholarship to cover the rest, whereas a less academic recruit might need a larger athletic award for the same net cost. Doing well in school not only helps you get admitted but can make you cheaper to recruit, which is an asset. Tip: When talking to coaches, you can tactfully mention if you’re a strong student (“I have a 3.8 GPA and a 30 ACT”) – it alerts them that you may qualify for academic aid and eases concerns about admissions.

The Recruiting Process Step-by-Step

Entering the recruiting process can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into steps and a timeline will help. Below is a general timeline and key actions for pole vaulters navigating recruitment. Keep in mind everyone’s journey is a little different (and COVID or other factors can shift timing), but this is a solid guideline:

Freshman/Sophomore Year (9th–10th Grade):

• Focus on Development: Your main job is to improve your pole vault technique and increase your heights. Join your high school track team and consider club track in the summer. At this stage, colleges aren’t recruiting you yet (and NCAA coaches aren’t allowed to talk to you about recruiting anyway). But they could notice results you post at big meets. More importantly, this is when you build the foundation – mastering your approach, take-off, and safely progressing in pole size. If you have access to a pole vault club or clinic, take advantage to get good coaching. Your marks in sophomore year can set the stage for early interest as a junior.

• Academics: Establish good study habits. D1 and D2 recruits will eventually need to register with the NCAA Eligibility Center, which checks your core courses and GPA. Start strong with your grades now so you’re not scrambling senior year to be eligible. And remember, better grades can equal more scholarship money (academic aid) later on.

• Learn about the Sport & Levels: Begin casually researching what college track is like. Watch NCAA meet videos, follow some college vaulters on social media, and note the heights that college athletes are jumping. This will give you perspective and motivation. You might realize, “Wow, the conference champion at XYZ College cleared 5.00m (16’4”) – I want to get there in a couple years.” It’s not too early to dream and set goals.

• Summer after Sophomore Year: This is a good time to attend a pole vault camp or a track & field summer camp at a college, if possible. Many universities host technique camps. While formal recruiting talk can’t happen yet at NCAA schools, you can still meet college coaches in a camp setting, learn from them, and they can remember your name for the future. Plus, you’ll improve your skills. (NAIA and DIII coaches could technically recruit you at any time, but they usually won’t yet unless you’re already vaulting elite heights as a 10th grader.)

Junior Year (11th Grade):

• Get on Coaches’ Radars (Summer to Fall): Starting June 15 after sophomore year, NCAA DI and DII coaches are allowed to contact you . Don’t wait for them to find you. If you have junior-year marks that you’re proud of (or even earlier marks), be proactive and reach out. Send introductory emails to coaches at schools you’re interested in. Include your name, graduation year, school, your current PR in pole vault (and any other events if applicable), academic info (GPA, test scores if available), and a short highlight or competition video if you have one. Express why you’re interested in their program (maybe academic interest in their school, or you noticed their vaulter won conference, etc. – something personal). Even if it’s early, this puts you on their radar .

• Fall of Junior Year: Many colleges will respond to early inquiries by sending you a recruiting questionnaire link or an invitation to join their mailing list. Fill out those questionnaires for any school you think you might like – it gets you into their database. Through junior year, you may start receiving brochures, camp invites, or periodic check-in emails from coaches. Keep a spreadsheet or folder to track which schools you’ve contacted and who replies.

• Campus Visits (Junior Year): From August 1 of your junior year onward, you can take unofficial visits to DI schools and meet coaches . You can visit campuses earlier too, but you just couldn’t meet the coach in person before that date. Now you can. Consider visiting a few nearby colleges (even if they’re not top choices, just to get a feel). On an unofficial visit, you pay your way, but you can set up a meeting with the vault coach, see a practice or facility, and generally get a feel for the team. Many recruits start visits in junior year, especially if a school has shown interest.

• Track Season (Junior Year): This is the big season for recruiting. Coaches will be very interested in your junior year track results. Make it count. Train well, stay healthy, and aim to peak at championship meets (league, state, etc.). If you hit a new PR, update the coaches you’ve been in contact with – send a quick email or even a text/DM if they’ve indicated that’s okay. For example: “Coach, just wanted to update you that I cleared 15’0” at regionals last weekend. Here’s a link to the video. I’m excited to keep improving!” This not only shows your progress but also that you’re seriously interested in their program. Coaches appreciate recruits who keep them in the loop (just don’t spam them every week with minor updates – stick to significant improvements or achievements).

• Spring of Junior Year: Many schools will start ranking their recruits around this time. You might get more personalized contact – e.g., longer phone calls or Zoom meetings with a head or assistant coach. Be prepared to answer questions about your goals, why you like their school, your academic interests, etc. Coaches might also ask about your training (do you also sprint? gymnastics background? how many steps in your approach? etc. for pole vault). Answer honestly and enthusiastically. This is also a time when some top recruits may even get verbal scholarship offers from DI programs – particularly if you’re among the best in the nation or the state. It’s still relatively early for track (which tends to recruit a bit later than sports like football), but early offers happen for the elite. Don’t be discouraged if you’re not one of them; most track recruits finalize things in senior year.

• Summer after Junior Year: If you haven’t yet hit the marks you want or garnered the interest you hoped, this summer is a chance to boost your profile. Consider entering some summer track meets or Junior Olympics meets to improve your PR. Coaches can’t visit you in person during certain summer dead periods, but they definitely pay attention to marks posted on MileSplit, Athletic.net, or other result sites. Late-bloomers absolutely get noticed between junior and senior year. Continue correspondence with coaches – by now, you should have a shorter list of serious possibilities. You might discuss scheduling official visits for the fall. NCAA rules allow you unlimited official visits, but realistically you might take 2–5 visits due to time and resources. Plan those with your top choices.

Senior Year (12th Grade):

• Fall (Senior Year) – Official Visits & Offers: The beginning of senior year is when most track & field recruits take their official visits. On an official visit (typically 48 hours), the school pays for your travel, housing (often you stay with a team member), meals, and you experience campus life and meet the team. You usually get a tour, see a football game or other event, and crucially, have sit-down talks with the coaching staff. By the end of an official visit, many coaches will indicate where you stand. Some might make a firm scholarship offer (“We are prepared to offer you a 30% scholarship if you commit to us”) during or shortly after the visit. Others may not give a number immediately, especially if they’re waiting until they’ve finished all their visits. It’s okay to ask politely, “Coach, what would the next steps be in the recruiting process with your program?” to gauge if an offer is coming. If you receive multiple offers, congratulations – but also be honest with coaches about your timeline for deciding.

• Early Signing Period (November): There is an early signing period in mid-November for NCAA (this used to be when National Letters of Intent were signed). As of 2024, instead of signing an NLI, recruits sign an official athletics aid agreement or letter of commitment to the school . The significance is the same – you are committing to that college, and they are committing the scholarship to you. If you have a committable offer that you’re sure about, you can sign in November of your senior year. Many track athletes, however, do not sign early – especially if they want to see how senior season goes or if they’re waiting on admissions/financial aid, or simply weren’t offered yet. It’s not a problem to wait.

• Winter of Senior Year: If you didn’t sign early, you’ll likely be finalizing your choice in the winter or early spring. Coaches may press you for a decision, especially if they have limited roster spots or other recruits on the line. You might hear something like, “We have one spot left for a vaulter – we’d love for it to be you. We need to know by [some date].” Try to stick to the timelines they give, out of respect. If you’re unsure or need more info (like a better financial aid read, or you’re waiting for another school), communicate that. It’s a delicate balance – you don’t want to lose an offer by appearing uninterested, but you also have to make the right choice for yourself.

• Admissions & Academics: Through the recruiting process, make sure you’ve applied (or are ready to apply) to the schools you’re considering. Coaches can often expedite admissions decisions for recruited athletes, but you usually still have to submit an application. Keep your grades up senior year; offers are contingent on maintaining eligibility and getting admitted. For NCAA, complete your Eligibility Center registration and send your SAT/ACT scores there as well.

• Spring of Senior Year (Track Season): Believe it or not, some recruits commit during or after their senior season, especially if they improved dramatically. There’s a final signing period that extends into the spring (usually April for NCAA signing, but essentially runs until August 1). If you hit a big PR in senior spring (say you go from 14’ to 15’6” as a guy, or 11’ to 13’ as a girl), you might suddenly get offers or interest from higher-level programs late in the game. It can be hectic, but it happens. Conversely, if you already signed, enjoy your final high school season without pressure! Just inform your college coach of any big developments (good or bad, like an injury) – you’re part of their future plans now.

• Decision Time: By the end of senior season, you should have made your college decision. Once you commit and/or sign an agreement, promptly and courteously let any other coaches who were recruiting you know that you’ve decided. Thank them for their interest. This is important; you don’t want coaches left hanging, and it’s good sportsmanship (coaching is a small world, and a coach you turn down today might cross your path later – always leave a good impression).

Throughout this timeline, remember that everyone’s journey is unique. Some vaulters commit super early to a dream school; others hustle all the way through July after senior year to find the right fit. Keep your options open and don’t get discouraged by a “no” or a non-response. As the saying goes, it only takes one “yes” to make your college vaulting dream come true, and there are many programs out there.

Communicating with Coaches: Make the Connection

Effective communication can set you apart in recruiting. Here are some tips for contacting coaches and building those relationships:

• Initial Outreach: Email is typically the best first step. It’s formal enough and coaches check email frequently. Your introductory email should be short and impactful:

  • Subject line: Include key info like “Prospective Vaulter – [Your Name], Class of 2026, [Your PR height]”. Example: “Pole Vault Recruit – Jane Smith 2026 – PR 12’6””.

  • Body: Introduce yourself (name, high school, graduation year). State your interest in their program and why (academically and athletically). List your key stats: pole vault PR (mention if it’s official meet mark or practice if relevant), any major accomplishments (State qualifier, All-County, etc.), and academic info (GPA, test score if decent). If you do other events (maybe you also sprint or do long jump), list those marks too – it shows versatility. Keep it to one or two short paragraphs. End with a note that you’ve attached a profile or video (if you have one) and that you’d love to talk more about how you could contribute to their team.

  • Highlight Video: For pole vault, a simple video of a few clearances at or near your PR height is great. You don’t need a fancy montage. Coaches mostly want to see your technique and consistency. Upload it to YouTube or Vimeo and include the link. Some athletes also include a link to their MileSplit or Athletic.net profile for verified meet results.

• Follow-Up: If you send an email and don’t hear back in a week or two, it’s okay to send a polite follow-up or even a text/DM if you have the coach’s number or social media (some coaches list a cell; many are active on Twitter). Something like, “Coach, just wanted to follow up on the email I sent on Sept 1. I’m very interested in [College Name]. Here again are my stats… I know it’s a busy time, but I’d be grateful for any feedback or to learn more about your program.” Coaches get hundreds of emails, so a friendly nudge can help, as long as it’s not overdone. Don’t take non-response personally. Persistence (within reason) is often needed. If a coach isn’t interested, usually they’ll eventually send a short note to that effect.

• Phone Calls & Zoom: Once contact is established, coaches may want to speak on the phone or via Zoom/FaceTime. Don’t be nervous – they usually just want to get to know you. Be prepared to talk about:

  • Your academic interests (have a possible major or area of study in mind).

  • Why you like their school (location, team culture, particular academic programs).

  • Your current training – it’s fine to share what poles you’re on, your training schedule, etc., to show you’re serious.

  • Questions you have for them. Always have a couple of questions ready. Examples: “What does a typical week of practice look like for your vaulters?”; “How is the team chemistry and what do you value in recruits aside from performance?”; “What are the goals for your pole vault group in the coming years?” Showing curiosity signals that you’re interested and have done some homework.

• Honesty and Etiquette: Always be honest with coaches. If another school has offered you, you don’t have to name the school or offer specifics, but you can politely let others know, “I do have a scholarship offer from another program. I’m still very interested in yours, but I will likely make my decision by [timeline].” This can sometimes prompt a school to clarify their position on you. Conversely, if you’ve lost interest in a school, kindly let them know rather than ghosting – “Coach, thank you for all your time, but I’ve decided to pursue other opportunities.” They will appreciate the closure. Do not make any commitment unless you are sure; a verbal commitment is not legally binding, but it is your word – and reneging on one should be avoided except in extreme circumstances.

• Parents in Communication: It’s great for parents to be involved, but coaches generally prefer to hear from the athlete, not the parent, especially in initial communications. You, the athlete, should be the one writing emails and texts. Parents can of course help proofread or give input behind the scenes. On phone calls or visits, it’s normal for parents to join part of the conversation, particularly to ask scholarship/financial questions or academic questions. Just ensure you as the athlete also engage. A coach wants to recruit a responsible young adult – communicating professionally is a big plus in their eyes.

Using Camps, Clubs, and Competitions to Your Advantage

Beyond your high school season, there are other ways to get noticed and improve your recruiting profile:

• College Camps and Clinics: Many universities host track & field camps in summer (or sometimes weekends during the year). Attending a pole vault camp at a college you’re interested in can help in a few ways. You get direct coaching and feedback (which can improve your performance), you can meet the coaching staff and sometimes current athletes, and you show demonstrated interest in that school. NCAA coaches at camps still must follow contact rules (so if you’re a sophomore, they can’t recruit-talk you at camp), but they can remember you and evaluate your skills. By junior year, if you attend a camp, they can speak freely. Don’t expect a scholarship offer from just showing up at camp, but many athletes report that a camp experience later led to deeper recruiting conversations. Plus, it’s a chance to experience the campus and facilities.

• USATF/AAU Junior Olympics and Club Meets: Competing in summer track meets or post-season meets (like New Balance Nationals, AAU Junior Olympics, etc.) can give you extra exposure. College coaches often keep an eye on results from these meets, especially for rising seniors. If you perform well, it can spark interest. Even if coaches aren’t there in person, results get around. Additionally, the more you compete against high-level competition, the more prepared you’ll be for college meets. If you hit a new PR at one of these meets, definitely update coaches with the news.

• Pole Vault Clubs: If you have a local pole vaulting club or training group (many areas have indoor facilities or clubs run by experienced vaulters), joining can be hugely beneficial. Not only will you likely improve by training year-round or in the off-season, but club coaches often have connections. They might know college coaches and can put in a good word or help you navigate where you could fit. College coaches also sometimes ask club coaches for their assessment of an athlete’s potential. So, it can indirectly help your recruiting. Be sure any club participation is within high school federation rules (in most places it is, as long as it’s outside the HS season or with permission).

• Showcases or Combines: Track and field recruiting doesn’t have the widespread showcase circuit that sports like soccer or baseball do, because our “combines” are basically just meets with verified measurements. However, occasionally there are specialized events (like pole vault summits or clinics) where college coaches might be present. The Reno Pole Vault Summit, for example, historically draws many elite vaulters and coaches (though it’s more of a convention/meet than a recruiting fair). If you attend these, treat them professionally – you never know who’s watching.

• State and National Rankings: Coaches do notice if you are ranked in your state or nationally. If you end up on MileSplit’s national list or Track & Field News honoree lists, great – but if not, don’t worry. Many recruiters look more locally or within their region. Being, say, top 5 in your state meet is often more significant to them than a national ranking. Focus on performing well at championship meets (league, section, state). Those meets carry weight. A clutch performance under pressure is something coaches love to see.

• Multi-event Athletes: If you have ability in other events (common for vaulters to also sprint, hurdle, or jump), participating in those can increase your recruiting stock. A coach might think, “This vaulter could also run on our 4×100 or help in long jump if needed.” That said, don’t do events that risk injury or detract from your vault if it’s not something you enjoy – pole vault itself is demanding enough. But if you naturally also excel elsewhere, it can’t hurt to let coaches know.

Finally, attending big track meets even as a spectator (like the Penn Relays, NCAA Championships if nearby, etc.) can be inspiring and also an opportunity to see college team culture up close. Sometimes just being around that environment fuels your fire to work harder and reach that level.

Social Media: A Double-Edged Sword

In this day and age, social media is playing an increasing role in recruiting. College coaches do monitor recruits’ social media presence . Here’s how to make yours an asset instead of a liability:

• Project a Positive Image: Coaches are looking at your social media to gauge your character and see if you’ll be a good representative of their team. Content that implies you are coachable, dedicated, and team-oriented will reflect well . This doesn’t mean every post must be about track – it’s fine to show your personality and hobbies – but avoid anything that would raise red flags. Obvious no-nos include posts with illegal substances, excessive partying, offensive language, or disrespectful comments. Even if you think something is a joke, consider how it looks to a coach who doesn’t know you personally.

• Highlight Your Athletic Journey: Platforms like Instagram, Twitter (X), TikTok, etc., can be used to showcase your progress. Some recruits create separate athletic accounts, but that’s not necessary if you keep your main profile clean. Posting a video of a new PR vault clearance, a photo from a meet podium, or even sharing your excitement about a successful practice can subtly market you. Coaches often enjoy seeing these updates – it shows your passion. Tagging the official team account of the school after a visit with a “thank you” (e.g., a photo at their facility) can also put you on the radar of not just that coach but others who follow the account.

• Engage (Moderately) with Coaches/Teams Online: It’s okay to follow coaches and team accounts on social media. Many recruits do. Just keep interactions professional. A like here or there or a positive comment (“Congrats on a great season!” on a team’s post) can show your interest. Some coaches may follow you back or add you to their recruiting watch list on social. However, do not overdo it – multiple comments or tagging coaches in every PR can come off as too much. Think of social media as a supplement to, not a replacement for, direct communication.

• NIL Considerations: Starting college in 2025–26, you will be entering a world where Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities are available. This means you, as a college athlete, can potentially earn money from endorsements or social media influence. While this is usually more relevant for star athletes at bigger schools, even track athletes have started to benefit (free gear from pole manufacturers, local sponsorships, etc.). Building a positive personal brand now can set you up for that. Keep followers engaged with your journey. Just be careful not to violate any rules as a recruit – for instance, you can’t sign endorsement deals as a high school recruit tied to a college. But you can certainly build your brand so that once you’re in college, you’re attractive to potential sponsors.

• Be Mindful of Controversy: It should go without saying, but avoid posting about highly polarizing topics or anything that could stir controversy unless you are prepared to own it and it’s something you truly stand by. Coaches may shy away from recruits who appear to court controversy or drama online. They want harmonious team dynamics. This doesn’t mean you can’t be yourself or have opinions – just remember that once it’s public, it becomes part of how you’re perceived.

• Privacy Settings: If you have old posts you’re not proud of and can’t delete them all, consider setting your account to private during recruiting. Be aware, though, coaches might then ask you directly for your handle or to friend you. It’s often better to curate a good public profile than to hide everything. You can also use disappearing content (e.g., Instagram Stories) for less formal sharing, but assume anything could be screenshot. When in doubt, think, “Would I be okay with a college coach or my grandma seeing this post?” If yes, it’s likely fine. If not, reconsider posting it.

In short, use social media to your advantage: celebrate your accomplishments, support your teammates, and show you’re a well-rounded, positive person. It can actually help coaches get excited about you. One coach might see your tweet about overcoming a bad meet and admire your attitude, while another might quietly drop a recruit after seeing something problematic on their profile. Control the narrative by controlling your content.

Evaluating and Interpreting Scholarship Offers

When that exciting moment comes – a coach is offering you a spot on the team, perhaps with a scholarship – it’s important to understand exactly what is being offered. Not all offers are equal, and the fine print matters. Here’s how to navigate scholarship offers and your eventual commitment:

• Verbal Offer vs. Written Offer: A verbal offer is when a coach says to you, “We’d like to offer you a spot on our team with X scholarship.” This can happen over the phone, in person, or even via email. Verbal offers are not binding for either party. They are generally made in good faith, and it’s rare for a coach to revoke one without reason (or for a recruit to accept and then back out, though it does happen). But circumstances can change – for example, if you were to get injured or not get admitted academically, that verbal offer could evaporate. A written offer of athletic aid (the actual scholarship paperwork) will come later, typically at the time of signing. Starting in 2024, recruits sign an athletics aid agreement that outlines the terms of the scholarship . Once you and the school sign that, it becomes a binding agreement – you’re committed to attend, and they must provide that scholarship.

• One-Year Scholarship vs. Multi-Year: Historically, athletic scholarships were one-year renewable agreements. Schools had the option to offer multi-year scholarships, and some did. With the new NCAA climate, multi-year offers might become more common as a recruiting incentive, but many offers will still effectively be year-to-year. This means the scholarship can be renewed (or not) each year. The vast majority of programs will renew scholarships as long as you remain in good standing (athletically, academically, and behavior-wise). Non-renewal usually happens if an athlete quits, violates rules, or truly isn’t meeting team expectations. It’s fair to ask a coach, “Is this scholarship for my freshman year only, or is it for all four years assuming I remain eligible?” Most will say something like, “We intend it for four years; we renew as long as you’re contributing and doing the right things.” Some conferences or schools have policies now that effectively guarantee multi-year, but get clarity so you have peace of mind.

• Percentages and Dollars: Offers are often stated as a percentage of cost (“we’re offering you a 50% scholarship”). It’s important to know 50% of what. Does it cover 50% of tuition? Or 50% of the total cost of attendance (which includes housing, meals, etc.)? Typically, they mean cost of attendance. If unsure, ask for clarification. Some will state it in dollars (“we can offer $20,000 per year”). Compare that to the school’s cost of attendance. An offer that covers tuition but not room/board might sound like a “full scholarship” in casual terms but is really ~50% of total costs at many schools. Know the value.

• Books Scholarship: You might hear terms like “books scholarship” or “tuition waiver” etc. A “books” scholarship is basically a very small scholarship that covers the cost of textbooks – it’s often used if a team has an extra sliver of scholarship budget. It’s almost like saying you’re a recruited walk-on but we’ll throw you a bone. On the flip side, some public schools can give “tuition waivers” to in-state students that essentially cover tuition as a form of scholarship. Just make sure you understand the terminology. Don’t hesitate to say, “Coach, can you walk me through what the scholarship would cover?”

• Full Ride Reality Check: Full rides in track are typically reserved for those who can score at the national level or who are double-triple event threats. For instance, a female vaulter who can also potentially qualify for nationals in heptathlon, or a male vaulter who also is a top decathlete, might get near-full support. If you are “just” a pole vaulter, you’d likely need to be among the top high school vaulters in the country (e.g., 17’+ for men, 14’+ for women) to get a true full scholarship offer at a major program – and even then, as the earlier anecdote showed, the best program might still split scholarship to stack their roster with many good athletes . Many recruits and parents initially assume an athletic scholarship means everything paid. Be prepared that you’ll probably be piecing together different aids (athletic, academic, maybe need-based, maybe student loans or family contribution) to cover costs. The good news is track programs can mix and match those to help you. If a coach really wants you, they might help find other aid if their athletic money isn’t enough – for example, sometimes they coordinate with the financial aid office for need-based grants (this is more common in DIII or Ivy League since they have no athletic aid, but even scholarship schools do it).

• Walk-On Offers: Sometimes a coach may say, “We don’t have a scholarship for you, but we can offer you a roster spot.” This is essentially a preferred walk-on offer. Treat this seriously – it’s still an offer to be on the team, which is valuable. If it’s at a school you love and you can afford it through other means, it’s worth considering. You can always earn a scholarship later. Coaches often reward good walk-ons with scholarships in later years if they perform well and budget allows. If you are weighing a 40% scholarship at School A vs. a walk-on spot at School B (a dream school), factor in finances obviously, but also the intangible fit. Some athletes choose the walk-on route at a top program and thrive; others prefer some scholarship security. There’s no wrong choice, just what’s right for you.

• Deadlines and Pressure: Coaches might give you a deadline to accept an offer. This is common because they have other recruits in line. Express your appreciation and make your decision as timely as you can. If you need more time or have another visit, be honest. Most coaches will try to work with you, but they have to protect their team’s interest too. If you sit on an offer too long, understand it could be given to someone else. On the flip side, don’t rush into a decision because of pressure if you’re genuinely unsure. Communicate, ask questions, and possibly talk to current athletes at that school to gather intel (coaches often allow or even encourage you to talk with team members, away from coaches, to ask candid questions).

• National Letter of Intent (NLI) – Now Defunct: Previously, recruits would sign an NLI binding them to the school. As noted, the NCAA eliminated the NLI program in late 2024 . Now you will sign a scholarship agreement or acceptance of admission (for walk-ons). The practical difference for you is minor – it’s still a signing that secures your spot and benefits. Signing Day ceremonies will still happen; you just might sign a different document. One important detail: once you sign an aid agreement with a school, other schools should stop recruiting you . It has the same effect as the NLI did in that regard. So once you’ve signed, you’re off the market.

• Household v. NCAA Settlement Consideration: Some recruits and parents ask, will the new NCAA rules mean I can get more scholarship money now? Potentially, yes. If a school was previously maxed out (say, a men’s team had no scholarship left under 12.6 limit) but now can expand, they might throw an extra partial scholarship to a recruit who previously would have been walk-on. But remember, budgets are still finite. The big impact might be seen more in women’s teams due to Title IX – eliminating scholarship caps could effectively double women’s scholarships at fully funded programs . Each school will handle it differently. When discussing offers, you can subtly feel this out: “With the recent NCAA rule changes, do you anticipate any changes in how scholarships are allocated on your team?” Some coaches might share that their athletic department is giving them a bigger scholarship budget, while others might say it’s status quo for now.

• Comparing Offers: If you’re lucky enough to have multiple scholarship offers, create a comparison sheet. Consider:

  • Net cost to you and your family after the offer (including travel costs if out-of-state, etc.).

  • Academic fit of each school (does it have your desired major, etc.).

  • Athletic fit (will you get to compete, or is the team so deep you might sit out a lot? How is the coaching for vault specifically?).

  • Campus life and personal preference (location, size, culture).

  • Gut feeling from your visit interactions.

  Sometimes a slightly smaller scholarship at a school where you feel happier and more likely to succeed academically/athletically is worth it over a larger scholarship at a place you had reservations about. Four years is a long time to be unhappy just to save a bit of money – find a balance.

• Letter of Commitment: When you’ve decided, you’ll sign the official paperwork likely in either the early signing period or later. Congratulations! At this point, make sure to uphold your end: maintain your grades, keep training smart, and arrive on campus ready to go. Coaches have had unfortunate cases of recruits slacking off after signing and then struggling their freshman year. Don’t let that be you. Use the rest of your high school time to prepare for the next level.

Finally, celebrate your decision. You earned it through years of hard work in a very challenging event. Pole vaulting in college is an achievement to be proud of, whether you’re on full scholarship at a DI university or walking on at a DIII college just for the love of the sport. Many don’t make it this far.

Final Tips for Athletes and Parents

• Keep Everything in Perspective: The recruitment journey can be stressful, but remember why you’re doing this – for the love of pole vault and to get a great education. There will be ups (PRs, interest from coaches) and downs (no-height meets, rejection letters). Try to enjoy the process of visiting colleges and meeting new people. Every “no” just gets you closer to the right “yes” for you .

• Stay Organized: Create a dedicated email for recruiting if needed, keep notes on each school, and mark important dates (like when you can first talk to coaches, when official visit weekends are). Respond to coaches in a timely manner – being communicative and responsible makes a strong positive impression.

• Involve Your Support Network: Talk with your parents/guardians openly about what you want in a college and what the financial realities are. Also, loop in your high school coach or club coach – they can provide honest assessments of what level you can compete at and might even reach out to college coaches on your behalf. Just be sure you’re also personally involved; don’t leave all the work to others.

• Health and Training: During recruiting, especially senior year, take care of your body. An injury can derail or delay plans. College coaches understand injuries happen, and they usually won’t pull an offer for a one-time injury if they really want you, but it can complicate things. Follow good training practices, and communicate with coaches if anything comes up.

• Academics Matter: We’ve said it multiple times, but it’s worth reiterating. Good grades and test scores give you more options. Some colleges have strict admissions standards even for athletes (for example, Ivy League and other academically elite schools). If you aspire to those, you might need a high GPA/SAT to get in even if you’re a great vaulter. Even at easier schools, better academics can mean more scholarship money (academic aid) and a smoother college experience.

• Team Culture and Coach Personality: These “fit” factors are hugely important. When you visit, observe how the coach interacts with the athletes. Ask team members how they like the coaching style. You might prefer a more technical, serious coach or maybe a more encouraging, father-figure/mother-figure type. Also, see if the athletes seem to get along and support each other. You will spend a lot of time with your college teammates – a positive, collaborative team culture can make your experience wonderful, whereas a toxic environment can ruin it. Choose a place where you feel you’ll grow and be happy.

• Prepare for Independence: College life is different from high school. You’ll have more independence and responsibility. Show coaches that you are mature and ready for that. Little things, like promptly answering texts or being punctual on visits, signal that you’ll be a reliable team member.

• Don’t Burn Bridges: If you have to tell a coach “no,” do it respectfully. The coaching community is tight-knit. A coach you politely declined will understand (and might even wish you luck genuinely), but one who feels disrespected might mention it to others. Besides, you never know – coaching changes happen. The coach who recruited you could leave, and maybe one of the coaches you turned down gets hired at your school. Your reputation as a recruit can carry over.

• Love the Sport: At the end of the day, college pole vaulting is tough. You’ll be balancing academics, heavier training loads, and maybe not improving as fast as you did in high school. The ones who thrive are those who truly love vaulting. Show that passion throughout the process. Coaches are excited to bring on athletes who clearly love what they do and are eager to get better. If you have that mindset, it will shine through and attract the right opportunity.

Good luck with your college pole vaulting journey! Stay focused, stay positive, and aim high – both literally and figuratively. With the latest rules and guidance in this guide, you are well-equipped to navigate the recruiting process. There’s a collegiate pole vault pit waiting for you out there – go find it and soar.

So there you have it!

This should get you off to a great start.  Oh wait….TIMING IS EVERYTHING!!!  It’s so important to make sure that you start this process at the right time.  You want to have a choice in where you go, and not be stuck with what is left over.  Here is a good timeline for your recruiting process…

RISE Higher.