JO Nationals should be a celebration not just for the athletes but also the coaches that have worked so hard to get you to this point. What can you expect from this meet in terms of college recruiting?

1. There will be the majority of college coaches in attendance. Division 1, 2 and 3 .
2. Depending on the building, the college coaches will be sitting together behind tables. They usually hang their school banner across the table where they will be located. College coaches may also be videoing your routines.
3. You can not speak to the college coaches unless you are a senior and finished with your competition. This same rule applies to the parents.
4. Your club coach can speak with the college coaches.
5. You will be asked to wear a colored dot on your back that indicates you are still looking for a college and the color is based given to you dependent on the year you graduate.
6. Typically the college coaches have a list of recruits they plan to watch ahead of time, but occasionally a gymnast will “jump out” to them that creates interest.
7. Yes, it is important to perform well at this meet, but no more than any other meet.  Remember the coaches have usually seen your videos before you arrived.
8. If you struggle at the meet and it is not your best performance, it is OK!  They know many of you are still learning how to compete. You are still developing and growing. They look for many things besides just your hit routine or score. Clean lines, technique, potential and performance quality.
9. Also, be sure to be aware of how you treat others especially your teammates and coaches.  Are you clapping and encouraging others?  How do you respond to your coach if you fall or struggle?  What do you do if you have a bad warm up?
10. Have fun!

These are just a few of the items to be aware of at JO Nationals. Keep in mind these are “general rules” there are some more details involved especially in the contact rules that may
apply.  Most importantly try to have fun and enjoy the reward of competing at this great competition.

About Jill Hicks:

Jill Hicks is a former elite gymnast, Division I college athlete, club coach and Division I college gymnastics coach (Cal State Fullerton, Oregon State) and the owner of Jill Hicks Consulting, where she provides recruiting services and choreography for prospective student-athletes and their families. For further information visit: www.jhicksconsulting.com

Editor's Note:  Publication of this article is not an endorsement of any recruiting service.  Always check with the NCAA or your school's compliance officer for any questions regarding recruiting rules, the latest timelines, or other issues.