Multiple universities scout Bartlett seniors
Senior Dionne Vann prepares to serve the ball during a volleyball match. Vann plans to attend the University of Tennessee at Martin, a university which coincidentally scouted her.
October 30, 2009 • written by Lauren Haley
Filed under Sports
Normally, to draw the attention of college scouts, high school athletes must contact coaches from numerous schools and hope for the best, but some players just get lucky.
Senior Dionne Vann is one of those lucky athletes.
The University of Tennessee at Martin spotted Vann when a scout attended a match to watch a player on the opposing team. Now, the university is recruiting Vann as their defensive specialist.
Varsity volleyball coach Sherrie Walker said that the scout was originally looking at a girl playing a totally different position.
“It was kind of accidental,” said Walker.
However, Vann is not the only student in the spotlight.
UT Martin is also scouting senior Carrie Conner. Girl’s cross country coach Steve Sullivan said that Connor was scouted not only because she is a talented runner, but also because she has earned additional scholarships. Sullivan said that even if two athletes are the same quality runner, that coaches will often choose the one with more scholarships, in order to save the university money.
He also said that once cross-country is done with the regional championship, that more girls will be scouted.
A number of schools are currently showing interest in senior Willie Matthews as well.
“Arkansas State University, University of Memphis, Southern Mississippi, Middle Tennessee State University of Central Arkansas . . . just to name a few!,” said varsity football coach Robert Armbruster.
Armbruster says that Matthews sparked the interest of so many universities due to his overall athletic ability. Matthews is the state champion in the triple jump in track, he runs a 4.4 40-yard dash, and according to Armbruster, he is a big hitter and has great leadership qualities.
“He has many abilities you just can’t coach,” said Armbruster.
Matthews is also fourth in the state in rushing and is expected to break the school record for rushing.
For any hopeful athletes the National Collegiate Scouting Association has come up with the five suggestions:
1. Get evaluated. Players should get an objective, expert opinion on their performance.
2. Post an academic/athletic resume online. Coaches check the web before they check the mail.
3. Create a winning highlight/ skills video. These athletes need to showcase their talent.
4. Contact a minimum of 100 coaches. Coaches contact thousands of players in case they have spots that they need filling. Players should do the same.
5. Start building relationships and following up with coaches now. Coaches should be familiar with their recruits.
These athletes have caught the attention of scouts with their skill, hard work, and leadership abilities. They earned their spot on a college team with their drive and determination, and now they can look forward to playing their sport in the years to come.
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