Reclassifying in high school for football is a term that refers to the process of changing a student-athlete's high school graduation class. This change is often necessary for football players who have late birth dates, requiring an extra year of mental and physical maturity before enrolling in college. In this article, we will explore the reasons why student-athletes might consider reclassifying, the process of reclassification, and the potential consequences of delaying college entry.
Why Would a Student-athlete Consider Reclassifying?
There are several reasons why a student-athlete might consider reclassifying for football:
Age
A student-athlete might have a late birth date for their sport, making them eligible for an extra year of development before enrolling in college. This can be particularly beneficial for football players who may need an extra year to physically mature and develop their skills.
Academics
For students who struggle with academic coursework, reclassification can provide an opportunity to repeat a grade and master essential skills before the next school year. This may lead to better academic performance and more opportunities for college recruitment.
Athletics
Reclassification allows football players to hone their skills, improve their physical attribute, and potentially play at a higher level within the sport if they have extra time to develop. This can be especially advantageous for players who may have underdeveloped skills or physicality when they enter college.
The Process of Reclassifying
Reclassifying in high school for football typically involves the following steps:
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Initial Meeting with the Family and Student-Athlete: The student-athlete and their family meet with a football professional who assesses their goals and reasons for reclassification.
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Strategic Plan: A strategic plan for the reclass-year is created, ensuring that the student-athlete is ready academically and athletically for the new year.
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Academic Training: Academic training is intensified during the reclass-year, allowing the student-athlete to develop further academically and athletically than they would have in a normal year.
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Athletic Training: Athletic training focuses on improving the student-athlete's physical ability, including strength, speed, and agility, through additional practice and competition.
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Preparation for College Football: Preparing for college football involves taking classes specifically designed for football players, including core courses and any necessary academic support.
Potential Consequences of Reclassifying
Despite the potential benefits of reclassification, there are also some potential consequences to consider:
Risk of Losing NCAA Eligibility
Reclassification could result in a loss of NCAA eligibility if the student-athlete does not meet the necessary academic and athletic standards during the reclass-year. This could prevent the student-athlete from playing in college or limit their opportunities to participate in college sports.
Delays College Enrollment
Reclassifying can potentially delay entry into college because students must meet the one-year requirement after high school graduation before they can begin college-level classes. This may affect the student-athlete's readiness for college-level competition.
Academic Struggles
While reclassification can provide an opportunity for academic improvement, it also poses risks if the student-athlete struggles academically during the reclass-year. This could lead to further delays in college enrollment or academic probation.
##Reclassifying in high school for football can be a helpful tool for football players seeking to gain mental and physical maturity before enrolling in college. However, the process requires careful planning and consideration of potential consequences to ensure that the student-athlete remains on a path to success both academically and athletically. It's important for students and families to understand the nuances of college eligibility rules and create a plan that aligns with their goals and abilities
