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Wrestling in College: Understanding NCAA Eligibility and Rules for Athletes and Coaches

College wrestling is an exciting sport that attracts many talented high school athletes. However, before a student-athlete can participate in college wrestling, they must meet NCAA eligibility requirements and follow strict rules that govern the recruiting process. In this post, we will provide an overview of NCAA eligibility and rules for wrestling athletes and coaches.

The NCAA Eligibility Center determines if high school athletes meet the academic and amateurism requirements to participate in college sports. Before starting the recruiting process, athletes need to register with the NCAA Eligibility Center by visiting their website or watching their sign-up tutorial videos. Incoming freshmen need to meet specific requirements, including a minimum GPA, a certain number of high school core courses, and a qualifying test score (SAT or ACT). Students must also complete the amateurism certification process, which ensures that they have not received payment or benefits for their athletic ability.

Once you are eligible to compete in the NCAA, it is crucial to follow the recruiting rules that apply to coaches, players, and parents. These rules govern what can and cannot be done during the recruiting process, and violations can result in serious consequences.


Wrestling coaches can contact wrestling recruits after June 15 of their sophomore year. They can use various forms of communication, including emails, calls, texts, recruiting letters, and verbal offers. In Division I, coaches can make verbal offers to recruits, and they can also conduct off-campus contact with recruits, but there are restrictions during the dead period.

For Division II, coaches can send general materials to recruits at any time, including questionnaires, camp brochures, and non-athletic information about the school. College coaches can call, text, email, direct message, and conduct off-campus contact with an athlete and/or their family after June 15 of their sophomore year. Student-athletes can also begin taking official visits at this time.

Division III rules are more relaxed, and coaches can contact student-athletes at any time during high school. Recruits can go on an unofficial visit at any point, and coaches can call, email, text, and send direct messages to student-athletes. Coaches can contact student-athletes off-campus after their sophomore year, and athletes can start taking official visits on January 1 of their junior year.

It's important to note that coaches cannot use the university's social media pages to discuss specific recruits or contact prospects outside of what is allowed by NCAA recruiting laws. NAIA coaches don’t face the same recruiting restrictions as the NCAA, and they can contact student-athletes at any point during high school, including emailing, texting, and calling.

In conclusion, college wrestling is an excellent opportunity for high school athletes to compete at the next level. However, it's essential to understand the NCAA eligibility requirements and the recruiting rules that apply to athletes and coaches. By following these rules, you can ensure a fair and successful recruiting process that leads to a successful college wrestling career. For more information, check out the NCAA Guide Book and NCSA Q&A videos.



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