Landing a spot on the Army football team is a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. It requires dedication, skill, and a commitment to excellence both on and off the field. This guide will walk you through the steps necessary to increase your chances of making the team.
1. Exceptional High School Performance: Laying the Foundation
Your high school football career is your primary proving ground. Standout performance is crucial. This means:
- Dominating Statistics: Coaches look for players who consistently produce impressive numbers. High scoring totals (if you're an offensive player), numerous tackles and sacks (if you're a defensive player), or significant yardage gains (if you're a running back or receiver) will significantly boost your profile.
- All-Conference and All-State Honors: These accolades demonstrate your ability against top competition within your state. They are strong signals to college recruiters.
- Film Study: Ensure your highlights reel showcases your best plays. Clear, well-edited footage is essential for catching the attention of Army's coaching staff. Showcasing your versatility and leadership abilities is also important.
- Academic Excellence: Remember, the Army prioritizes academics. Maintaining a high GPA is crucial for admission and for remaining eligible for the team.
2. The Recruiting Process: Getting on their Radar
- Reaching out to Army Coaches: Proactively contact the Army football coaching staff. Send them your highlight reel, academic transcripts, and any other relevant information that demonstrates your capabilities. Be persistent, but respectful.
- Attending Recruiting Camps: Participating in Army's football camps provides a direct opportunity to showcase your talent to coaches. These camps provide a chance for personal interaction and evaluation.
- Maintaining Contact: Stay in touch with the coaching staff throughout the recruiting process. Let them know about your achievements and progress.
3. The Academy Application: More Than Just Football
Getting into West Point is a highly competitive process in itself. This means:
- High SAT/ACT Scores: Achieving excellent scores on standardized tests is vital for admission.
- Strong Academic Record: Maintain top grades throughout high school. A high GPA is essential.
- Leadership Roles: Involvement in extracurricular activities, demonstrating leadership roles, and community service are highly valued by the admissions committee. They show well-roundedness and commitment.
- Physical Fitness: Demonstrate physical fitness and endurance. West Point's demanding physical training program requires a high level of fitness.
4. Succeeding at West Point: Beyond the Initial Roster
Even if you make the team initially, the battle is far from over. The intense training and rigorous academics at West Point demand constant commitment and perseverance:
- Discipline and Commitment: Maintaining discipline and a strong work ethic is crucial for success.
- Teamwork and Camaraderie: Foster positive relationships with your teammates. Teamwork is essential in football.
- Continuous Improvement: Always strive for self-improvement. Regular training and dedication to the sport are key.
5. Beyond the Field: The Whole Athlete
Remember, success at West Point isn't just about football. It's about becoming a well-rounded individual who embodies the values of the academy.
- Character: Display strong character, integrity, and leadership qualities.
- Leadership: Seek out opportunities to lead and mentor others.
- Service: Contribute to your community and show a commitment to serving others.
Getting onto the Army football team is a considerable achievement requiring dedication, skill, and exceptional academic performance. By focusing on these key areas, you significantly improve your chances of making your dream a reality. Remember to always prioritize your education and your personal growth as this journey demands both athletic and academic excellence.
