College Recruiting with Jill Hicks
By Jill Hicks
College Recruiting with Jill HicksJun 01, 2022
Why JHC likes to start the recruiting process at Level 9
I can understand why many people are confused as to when to start the recruiting process. They often compare the start time to the end of high school senior year because that is when they themselves started or they do not understand the NCAA rules and the sport of gymnastics. This topic will help you understand the reason behind why JHC likes to start with research and education first at Level 9.
If you would like to become a JH Girl and you are a Level 9 you can go to www.jhicksconsulting.com click on Get Started and fill out our forms page. An advisor will give you a call.
Can you talk to college coaches at Nationals
This podcast is all about talking to college coaches at Western's, Eastern's and DP Nationals. Jill shares the NCAA rules for Division 1, 2 and 3.
If you would like to become a JH Girl and receive personal advising on your college recruiting journey, go to www.jhicksconsulting.com and click on Get Started. One of our advisors will give you a call once you have filled out the forms page.
What college coaches look for at Western's, Eastern's and DP Nationals
Jill shares 8 items to be aware of at the next big meets that are coming up. Yes, college coaches are looking for the best athletes who can score what they need on their teams, but there is so much more they look at.
Join JH Consulting today we will get you prepared for June 15th and beyond. Or check out www.jhicksconsulting.com and all the advising we offer.
We also have a new coach on our team Mike Linn. He will get your athlete prepared for college to arrive on campus ready for conditioning and lifting.
Where do you go from here
If you qualified to DP Nationals, Western's or Eastern's or not I have some tips for you to keep your recruiting moving forward.
A letter to the parent of an athlete from Jill
You are raising an incredible human being
Compete with confidence
On this podcast I enjoyed speaking with Ariana LeBlanc who was an Elite gymnast and owns The Mindful Gymnast. Ariana shares tips on how to overcome your fears in the sport of gymnastics and ways to uncover and identify why you may struggle with your confidence when you compete.
www.themindfulgymnast.com
Rest, Restoration and Relaxation
Many gymnasts do not realize how important it is to take some time off in the peak of their season. They are so used to pushing everyday going to school and the gym.
Rest, restoration and relaxation are crucial aspects of an athlete's overall recovery and positive outcome to their performance. This time of season you may find you have a few weekends off. This is a great opportunity to allow yourself to recover and it can have very positive result to the rest of your season.
What does it show the college coach when you compete well
Of course everyone wants to hit or compete well at meets. It shows the college coach many things that are important when they are trying to decide on their future teams. But what if you struggle? Jill shares how you can turn your season into something positive by communicating all that you are learning whether things go smooth or rocky.
No Comparisons
It is so refreshing and like a breath of fresh air when we stop looking around at others and comparing ourselves to them.
We are all at a different pace, ability and timing in regards to our progress and being recruited
Staying focused on what we can control is the key! But I also believe being grateful for the little things in our lives will release us from a lot of anxiety.
It is so important to go to practice and meets focused on you and not looking around at others. Be encouraged as you listen to these 10 items as to why you do not want to live by comparing yourself to others and especially in the recruiting process
www.jhicksconsulting.com
Thank you for listening and or being a part of JH Consulting. You are appreciated!
The one area most recruits like to skip over
Research is a key factor in setting you up for success in the college recruiting process. College coaches are very impressed with a recruit who has taken the time to learn on their own about the academics and athletics. There are so many ways to make this fun and get you ready to step up to the plate when you start to have direct communication with college coaches
Former Collegiate Gymnast Creates a Non Profit
Kirsten is a former collegiate gymnast, coach, physical therapist and now gym mom who shares with us her brilliant idea of starting a non profit. The Lineup Foundation is a non profit that helps kids stay in sports when difficulties arise.
If you would like more information see website below:
www.thelineupfoundation.com
How to use social media for college recruiting
Instagram is the number one social media platform used by college coaches in the sport of gymnastics. You will want to show college coaches not only what you do, but also who you are.
Also, be sure to register for JH$100. This special benefits both the 2026 and 2025 athlete or anyone in direct communication with college coaches. This 3 part series is for the parent and athlete which will also focus on June 15th.
+Target the right schools
+Send exciting emails
+Confident calls with coaches
Registration link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uhX8PYG8SW-TXJ6VCJhZkw#/registration
It is time to shine and compete for a scholarship, you are not bragging!
Is your gymnast prepared and confident to speak on their own behalf on June 15th or do they fear they are going to look like they are bragging? Are you as the parent ready for college coaches questions? This part of recruiting can be a deal breaker and we want you prepared. This is the time for your gymnast to shine and compete for a spot on a team or a scholarship.
This podcast gives the athlete and parent items to think about as to why most gymnasts struggle with speaking directly to the college coaches and how they can build confidence prior to that first conversation.
If you would like to join us for JH$100 Prep series for direct communication with the college coaches . You can now register by clicking on the link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uhX8PYG8SW-TXJ6VCJhZkw
JH Girl's recruiting journey to Clemson
Enjoy this podcast from a JH mom who shares how her daughter Molly landed a scholarship at Clemson University for 2025.
Be sure to watch for our brand new JH Special. We will be launching it next Thursday Feb 15th. You can email Jill if you would like to get on the list to receive the details in your inbox next week. jill@jhicksconsulting.com
Audrey shares her difficult decision to not do college gymnastics
I always say recruiting is like a roller coaster ride. Lots of ups and downs throughout the journey. Audrey was on her way to a Division 1 team and encountered a few injuries. Ultimately, she decided it was best to not pursue college gymnastics. While not easy I so appreciate Audrey being willing to let us into her story. She is strong, smart and took the time to make the best decision for her future. I can't wait to see where she lands for college and all the doors that I believe will open in her life even without doing sports.
Thank you Audrey!
Camden shares how she became a team manager at UCLA
Have you wanted to be a team manager on a college team? Camden is loving her first year experience at UCLA. How she applied, spoke to the coaching staff and was offered this position is all very interesting.
Do you need a college recruiting advisor? We help athletes in the college recruiting process, transfer portal and finding the right fit to becoming a team manager.
Go to www.jhicksconsulting
Click on Get Started
Fill out the Forms Page
We look forward to getting to know you! We are a personal advising business. Every athlete gets their own advisor who works with them side by side from start to finish.
Jill
How to turn the head of the college coach
Once you get the attention of the college coach, how do you take it to the next level? Jill shares three of her top items she believes will turn the head of the college coach.
Also, watch for our new JH Special. 2026 gymnast we have a great series for you to prepare you for June 15. You won't want to miss this. Details will be launched soon.
www.jhicksconsulting.com
Click on Get started
Fill out the forms page
An advisor will give you a call
The importance of advocating for yourself in season
Have you had your first meet of 2024? How did it go? How are you going to improve for the next meet? Did you know advocating for yourself can make a huge impact on having a full season of meets? Parents and club coaches, be sure to create an atmosphere where you athlete can open up and share with you all they are going through.
If you want to meet with one of our advisors to discuss
Recruiting
Transferring
Academics
Skills
College Summer Camps
and so much more
Go to www.jhicksconsulting.com
Click on Get Started
Fill out the forms page and and advisor will contact you
Or send your questions to Jill@jhicksconsulting.com
Honesty in the recruiting process
Today's episodes highlights the importance of both the college coach and the recruit to focus on being honest in the recruiting process. Jill shares tips on how to navigate the challenges of know when you are getting the truth and when it can "feel" like the the college coach may not have been honest.
At JH Consulting we like to give our clients specific questions to ask the college coach to go a little deeper and get to know the culture of the team and how it operates "really" after you arrive.
We all want the experience of college to be a great one. I believe it starts with a relationship of honesty.
If you would like advising for your recruiting process you can go to www.jhicksconsulting.com and click on get started. Fill out the forms page and an advisor will give you a call.
Lets make 2024 the best ever
Dream big in 2024. Take the time to think through what you would like to accomplish but I also want to encourage you to set your intention as this can be the key to an amazing year.
www.jhicksconsulting.com
JH$50 ends Jan 2nd
Go to www.jhicksconsulting.com
Click on Get Started
Drop down to the forms page and fill out your sport
In the comments put JH$50
An advisor will send you an email with the next details
JH$50 has launched all the details here on this podcast
We just announced JH$50 is now available to all our first time clients. It starts today and ends on Jan 2nd. Go to www.jhicksconsulting.com click on Get Started and fill out the forms page in the comments put JH$50. An advisor will contact you with all the details.
Lindenwood Gymnastics Situation
Hear from a dad whose daughter is currently on the Lindenwood gymnastics team. Today we discussed the heartbreaking announcement that Lindenwood gymnastics team would be dropped at the end of this season to fundraising in hopes to save the program.
Making the tough decision that's right for your body
Anna and her mom share with us on this podcast her injury journey and ultimately making the very hard decision of not pursuing college gymnastics. I believe we must share not just the "good" and "fun" things about recruiting, but also the challenges. I am so proud of this JH Girl that I have been working with the last year.
www.jhicksconsulting.com
Meet JHC’s Newest Advisor!
You Are Normal
2024 is almost here! Are you ready? Of course not......You should not feel like you have all your routines together quite yet. You have a whole season in front of you to struggle, learn and progress. You are normal! This podcast will give you a purpose and a focus even when you feel afraid and know you don't have it all together.
Jill also shares some tips for the parent who is not sure what to say after meets especially when your athlete struggles. Apply the JH ~ TLC method this season after each meet. Focus on:
TIME
LISTENING
CONNECTING
You've got this! We are in your corner.
Some encouragement for the 2024 gymnast
There are many of you who graduate in 2024 who are looking to find just the right college gymnastics team. There are some specific things I would recommend. Enjoy this podcast filled with tips and what you can be focused on. Remember "you never know" what can happen, so stay positive and know the college coaches will be recruiting into your senior year.
Stay in your lane
Are you having positive or negative self talk right about now? If you have not committed or did not get to sign this week, we need to evaluate and get you on the right track to have an incredible season.
www.jhicksconsulting.com
The Best Recruits Do This
Take a listen to the list of things Jill sees the best recruits doing. Yes, skills scores and start values are most important. But, when you package these items with your skills and routines you are going to be golden.
www.jhicksconsulting.com
We are adding Volleyball and Football as well as an Athletic Performance Coach. More details coming your way.
Raw & Real: This JH mom has a 2024 gymnast
Every family has different priorities and perspective on the college recruiting process. I have really enjoyed working with this JH Girl because she has persevered through so much. Gym and coaching changes as well as not becoming a Level 10 until her senior year.
Raw & Real: If you have a 2026 gymnast this story is for you
This JH mom shares what it is like to be a part of her daughters recruiting process having no previous experience and what she has learned and what she is hopeful for in the coming years.
Past University of Utah gymnast and now founder of Aspire Performance
Traci was an elite gymnasts who also competed for University of Utah. She graduated with a masters in Exercise Science with an emphasis on psychology. She now works with many gymnasts with fear issues and also helps athletes with performance enhancement.
You can find Traci at: www.aspireperformance.studio
Raw & Real: Another JH mom who has a 2024 gymnast shares her story
This JH family hired me the summer prior to their Level 10 gymnast entering her senior year. She had an injury and no offers. We put a plan together and she went from feeling lost in the process to having two opportunities.
Raw & Real: JH mom who has a Level 10 senior in the thick of the recruiting process
It is so encouraging to hear you are not alone when you are going through the recruiting process. Today Jill speaks with a mom of a Level 10 gymnast who is a senior. She shares what it has been like to still not know where her daughter will land for college.
www.jhicksconsulting.com
How to support your gymnast through the toughest parts of the recruiting process
Parents you are amazing! You can do this. Hang in there and be encouraged by some of the tips Jill shares with you today.
www.jhicksconsulting.com
Join the JH family and receive a personal advisor to help you walk through the process from start to finish. We know it is hard and difficult. We want to shed some light on your daughters path. Go to the website click on Get Started and fill out the forms page. An advisor will call you back and share with you what we do and answer your questions.
What no on tells you about Official Visits
Going on Official Visits start out to be a blast. But there are things no one explains in the beginning. Find out some of the things you may not know about Official Visits on the podcast today.
Im Level 9- 2026 graduate, how do I navigate recruiting this year?
I think most Level 9's who are Sophomores often feel like they may be left behind in the recruiting process. This episode will give you a purpose and a plan. You do not need to stress or worry. Jill shares a plan that will help you realize what you can be doing and how "waiting" to send out emails is often a great idea. College coaches look for strong basics at Level 9 and they know you will add in your "D" skills throughout your Junior year.
You've got this. Enjoy your season and set your goals both academically and athletically. This year should be when you set your foundation for recruiting. The outreach phase will come, it may just look a little different than. other gymnasts who have been Level 10 for a while.
www.jhicksconsulting.com
Turn the light on to your recruiting
For some recruits it feels very dark. They are not getting responses from college coaches except "keep sending updates". We need to turn the light on to your recruiting. At JH Consulting this is our goal. We like to do a deep dive into your past and evaluate all things you have been doing and why you might be in the dark and have no movement forward. Sometimes it is the skill level or choice of skills on an event that is holding things back. Other times it can be the list of schools your are reaching out to. I have also seen many shy recruits just not saying the right things to a college coach to get their attention. There are so many ways to turn the light on to your recruiting. First and foremost you need to be open. Open to hearing the truth about your situation. This can be tough for some. But when the athlete and parent are open, I often see change happen quickly. Enjoy this encouraging and hopeful podcast and let us know if you need help in the college recruiting process.
www.jhicksconsulting.com We are in your corner!!!
2024's You've Got This
If you are not recruited yet, I want you to know you can do this. Enjoy listening to this podcast about just a few tips and encouragement for the 2024 graduate who is wondering how this is going to all come together.
If you feel stuck or wonder why you are not hearing from college coaches, contact JH Consulting today. We will evaluate your situation and encourage you with a specific plan. Maybe it's who you are contacting or it could be the videos you are loading. Sometimes you just need to put in your upgrades to get things rolling with college coaches. We are here for you!
www.jhicksconsulting.com
Top 4 fears in the college recruiting process
1. Getting to Level 10 too late
2. Injuries
3. Rejection
4. Not living up to parents and coaches expectations
Jill covers all these areas and how to move through them instead of making them roadblocks.
www.jhicksconsulting.com
Official and Unofficial visits can be a game changer in the recruiting process
Official and Unofficial visits are crucial in the college athletic recruiting process. You want to be prepared and do your research. Bring the energy and show the college coach you are serious about their team and school. Be sure to put your phone away and be focused on every person. The college team will often vote after you leave. Did you connect with the girls? Did you ask them questions and show that you wanted to get to know them? Yes, it is a time for you to show them who you are in person, but it is also a time for the team to decide if you will fit in. During this podcast Jill shares ten items for you to think about prior to your official or unofficial visit.
www.jhicksconsulting.com
Join Recruiting 101- for many interviews and once a month zoom with Jill. Ask questions and go deeper with understanding the college recruiting process.
My take away from Supergirl Power Camp 2023
I attended another great few days in Northern California at Supergirl Power Camp. Miss Val and I shared with the gymnasts and parents. I also shared 7 items athletes wish they could tell their parents. Overall, it was a fun, encouraging and empowering event.
What to watch for when on a college campus
Jill shares two topics of importance when picking a college. Safety on the college campus and mental health support. These two items are not always thought about or discussed until you have already made your decision and are a freshman on the college campus.
Become a JH Girl: www.jhicksconsulting.com
JH Recruiting Leotards: www.saluteleos.com
Help! I am not getting official visit offers
One challenge in the recruiting process is knowing what to say and not say to enhance your journey. If you are struggling with not having any official visit offers this podcast is for you
June 15th is over, how to respond and what does it all mean
June 15th can be fun, exciting and a bit overwhelming often like a roller coaster ride. Jill shares how to respond and what to do next.
Become a JH Girl and receive the direction you may need to make the recruiting process as smooth as possible
www.jhicksconsulting.com
Dads and their athletes. A Fathers Day tribute!
This was so fun to record. Since Fathers Day is coming up, I thought we could do a tribute to all the dads out there who work so hard and are doing an amazing job with their daughters. Dads, you have such an impact on your daughters sport and more importantly her life. Keep up the great work.
www.jhicksconsulting.com click here to see all the services JH Consulting has to offer you
www.saluteleos.com click her to see JH Consulting Recruiting leotards
What is the parents role of the student- athlete when they go off to college
Jill interviews Robyn Jaslow, whose daughter just graduated from the Arizona State gymnastics team. Robyn shares with you from the parent perspective the adjustments and challenges of being the support system for your athlete when they are at college. Also, Robyn shares what it was like being the parent when Jordyn unfortunately called saying she injured her knee and was going to need surgery.
This is a very practical podcast on the realities of being the parent of a student athlete and I believe you will also be encouraged to know you are not alone with your questions and concerns. I also like the tips Robyn gives at the end on things to focus on while your gymnast is still at home with you in preparing them for when they go off to college.
www.jhicksconsulting.com
Become a JH Girl today
Hire a personal advisor in gymnastics, A&T, Aquatic sports and more. We also have an incredible academic advisor, Christie! Check out our website today.
Recruits: Lets brush up on your interviewing skills for phone calls and college visits
Jill discusses tips on how to best prepare, how to share your strengths and do a great job on your phone calls with college coaches. It can be intimidating to think about being on a call with a college coach. We want you to stand out and shine. It's just like preparing for a meet. You have to practice. So enjoy the information on this podcast and remember JUST BE YOU! That first call can be challenging, but you will get the hang of it.
If you want a personal advisor to help you through the recruiting process contact us today at www.jhicksconsulting.com
Click on Get Started
Fill out the FORMS page and an advisor will give you a call
We also have our special going until June 16, 2023. JH$50
Do you need a new fun leotard. Check out JH Consulting newest recruitment leos in 3 colors on the www.salute.leo website.
How do you know when a college coach is serious about you?
Wouldn't it be great if the college coach would call you on June 15th after your Sophomore year and say "we want you and here is your scholarship offer". It just does not happen like that very often. For the bulk of athletes, recruiting is a grueling period of time of many ups and downs. Jill shares today how you can know if a college coach is serious about you. Take a listen and be prepared to jot down some questions you can ask that will help give you an idea of their seriousness.
Remember we have a special going on right now for all new families. JH $50! You can get a taste of what we are all about with this 1 hour consultation for $50. Go to www.jhicksconsulting.com and click on Get Started. Fill out the forms page and in the comments put JH$50 and an advisor will give you a call.
Also, we have a new JH Recruiting Leotard. You can pick your color and have your graduation year on your leotard. Wear at college summer camps or just for fun. Take photos and post on Instagram. College coaches always start with your year of graduation to decide if they want to recruit you. Check them out by going to www.saluteleos.com
Preparing for June 15th
It is a fun week for many gymnast who have finished their Sophomore year. It can be a time for the gymnast to find out which college coaches are interested in them. Will it be a text, phone call, email or visit to watch you practice. Whichever it is, you need to be prepared. Lots of tips on this podcast, but remember many JH Girls from the past were recruited without being contacted on this day. Also, every college coach has their own style of reaching out. What works for one coach may be very different from another. Stay focused no matter if you get contacted or not on working hard on your upgrades and continue reaching out. It may take a little more time to get noticed.
www.jhicksconsulting.com
JH$50 is happening right now
1 hour consultation
Also, new JH Leotards were just launched today in 3 colors - head to www.saluteleos.com to take a look
Show the college coaches the size of your heart
Have you ever watched gymnasts in your gym or at meets who look down and seem uninterested in what they are doing? Now compare that to a gymnast like Laurie Hernandez. Wow what a performer she was and is. This is what college coaches see when they watch you. Do you show your heart and passion when you perform. Are you creating energy and making people want to watch you? Jill gives a twist on how to go into Nationals with being prepared to show the college coach the size of your heart. It will not only impact your performance, but it tells a college coach you will be able to handle competing in front of a crowd.
Have fun if you are traveling to Nationals, but if not no problem. Try to think of ways you can perform while working your upgrades. You've Got This
www.jhicksconsulting.com