There is no doubt that we are living in a time where competitive sport is being put on the back burner due to the Covid-19 pandemic. So how can you combat this, and still become a USA student-athlete? The answer: video highlight reels! College coaches want to see how you perform in competitive games and situations, without traveling to see you in person. It is therefore critically important to have a great highlight video. This can be used to not only showcase your strengths as a student-athlete, but also to make you stand out from thousands of students who share the same dream from across the world.

Why Are Highlight Videos Important?

As much as college coaches want to watch every recruit compete in person, it just isn’t possible. They don't have the time or the budget. Instead, they conduct initial evaluations of a student athlete online. A great highlight video has the power to put you on a coaches radar. Chances are they will at least have a look at what you can offer, and what more can you ask for than that?

First step: a 60 second introduction clip. We encourage student athletes to start off their highlight video with a quick introduction into who they are, what sport they play, their position/handicap/event, and why they would like to be a college athlete. This adds a personal touch to your video, allows the coaches to connect to you, and can make a good first impression.

How Do You Get That Footage?

To make a great highlight video, first you’ll need a reasonably good camera and camera stand (for stability). We understand that not everyone will have access to this so a video taken from your smartphone will suffice.

Once you have captured footage from a couple of competitive games, events or meets the hard work begins. You will need to sift through your footage and identify moments where you made an impact on the game. This could be a goal in soccer, a big hit in rugby, or a stinging ace served on the court. The point is that you want to advertise your best individual moments to showcase your talent and ability

Some Tips

Consider the following when putting your highlight reel together:

Keep it short and sweet. Coaches do not have the time to sit through a 45 minute video. At Aspire Atlantic we ask athletes to submit a 5-8 minute video or their highlights. 

Film multiple games/events:This shows coaches that you can consistently play well at the highest level. Preferably from an elevated position.

Include training footage: If you don't have access to a lot of footage from games or competitive events, you can still film yourself running training drills to show coaches your abilities.

Go The Extra Mile

At Aspire Atlantic, we believe in people who see problems as opportunities to improve. We ask the right questions and come up with practical solutions. We understand that there is a suspension on competitive games and events, and the best way we see to combat this problem is to film yourself practicing and mastering your craft. That can be at the driving range working on your golf swing, in the pool working on your underwater turns, or on the soccer field dribbling, shooting or taking free kicks. All of this can be used to showcase your skills, and set you apart from the competition. While we may not be able to compete against other players or other clubs, showing yourself training and working on your game will add great value to your video.

At no point during your recruitment process should you feel lost, overwhelmed or defeated. We are here to streamline this process and ensure that your journey to reaching your dream is as smooth and as comfortable as possible. If at any point you feel you are up against an obstacle, reach out to us and we would be more than happy to help.

Remember, it's always the perfect time to begin your journey towards studying at the university of your dreams. Sign up here for a free consultation with one of our recruitment experts. You could join over 300 student-athletes already placed in the USA, competing at the highest level and earning a world-class degree!