The NCAA Rules Have Changed. Has Your Recruiting Plan?
The world of college athletics is changing fast — and high school families need to keep up or risk getting left behind. With new NCAA rules taking effect in July 2025, the recruiting process has shifted dramatically, and many families are already feeling overwhelmed.
As the founder of PIC3, I’m here to break down why these changes matter — and why partnering with a recruiting consultant is no longer optional…it’s essential.
🔄 A New Era of College Recruiting
Thanks to the House v. NCAA settlement, Division I programs are no longer limited by traditional scholarship caps. Instead, they’re now restricted by roster size — meaning they can only carry a certain number of players, regardless of how many scholarships they’re willing to give.
This might sound like good news at first — more scholarships! But here’s the catch:
There are fewer total roster spots for high school athletes
Not all schools will have have the money to reach 18 scholarships
Walk-on opportunities are vanishing
Some programs are offering “DSA” (Designated Student-Athlete) status — a new protection category that only a few top recruits receive🔍 Every School Is Playing by Its Own Rules Now
Each school is implementing its own strategy
That means:
One program may still recruit freshmen heavily
Another might rely almost entirely on the transfer portal
Some schools are eliminating walk-ons
Others are reserving DSA status only for returning players, not incoming freshmen
Families can no longer make assumptions based on what worked for another athlete, team, or graduating class. Each school’s plan is unique — and those plans are constantly evolving.
🤝 Why PIC3 Consulting Matters More Than Ever
In this new era, families need a partner who understands the system from the inside out.
At PIC3, we have restructured our strategy’s and pricing structure:
Because each stage of an athlete’s high school career brings different priorities, pressures, and strategies.
If you’re unsure how these NCAA changes could impact your athlete’s journey, I’d love to talk. Let’s map out a smart, personalized strategy that puts your family in control of the process — not left reacting to it.
📩 Have questions? Contact me anytime → playincollege3@gmail.com
Nikki King
Founder, PlayInCollege3