July 1st marked the initial contact period for the class of 2016 athletes to be recruited. We reached out to some of our top 2015 standouts to get their take on the process and offer advice. See what five time Florida state champion, and New Balance Nationals Indoor and Outdoor high jump champion Nicole Greene, a UNC signee had to say.
When did coaches first start reaching out to you and how did you manage that?
The first coach to ever reach out to me I believe was an assistant coach from Louisville in the 8th grade. At that time I didn’t think I was going to do track in college, but I went with the flow- meaning I accepted the card he gave me and researched more about the university.
Did you have an official visit? How did it work and what was it like?
I went on four official visits to my top choices. Each visit is 48 hours and the athletic department pays for everything- airplane ticket included. I was able to get better tours of the campus, meet the team and other coaches, talk to academic/athletic advisors, sit in on classes, and attend sporting events. It was a small experience of what college will be like and how to balance it with track and field.
What did you look for in schools when you narrowed your options down?
There were a few major things that I looked for in the schools/athletics: that I was able to connect with the coaches; I liked the campus, if the school had my major, and the academic resources available to me on campus.
What ultimately made you decide on your college?
The ultimate decision of choose UNC Chapel Hill was that when I walked through the campus, I felt at home and I didn’t feel alone. I knew I would have strong support both academically and athletically.
Looking back on your recruiting experience, do you have any tips for those athletes who will be recruited in the future?
Looking back on the recruiting experience, the only tip I would give to a new senior athlete would to enjoy the experience and the visits!
