Former D1 coach Alex Swenson argues that sitting the bench at a big-name program hurts more than it helps. The transfer portal and new 5-and-5 rule have made D1 rosters older and more competitive, leaving freshmen sidelined for years. Playing time at D2, D3, or JUCO schools builds skills and game film faster.
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All right, go D1 and not play for 3 years or start somewhere lower and actually play? As a former D1 coach, here are my thoughts. And if you're new here, I'm Coach Alex, 11 years as a D1 coach, scout, and recruiter, and now I help families and athletes navigate recruiting the right way, especially nowadays. So what I'm about to say comes from inside the rooms. Most families want the D1 label, and I totally get it, but almost nobody understands How competitive D1 is, especially if you haven't been there. Between the transfer portal and the new 5-and-5 rule, rosters are older. Coaches can fill spots with 22-year-old proven college players instead of developing freshmen. So what does that mean for a high schooler who's chasing a logo? That means years of sitting, years of watching, and not much development and hitting the transfer portal. And here's what every coach knows: reps develop everything. Playing time is how athletes get better, stay in love with the game, and build a track record, actual proof they can compete. You cannot develop in a warm-up jacket. So compare honestly. A starter at the right D2, D3, or JUCO gets real playing time, real development, and real proof on film. A D1 non-starter gets a jacket, a logo, and nothing to show for it. Now hear me out. D1 is absolutely right for some athletes if That's your kid, go. But make it a thoughtful decision. Do your homework and ask coaches the right questions. Where do I fit on your depth chart? What's your history on with developing players like me? Do you go heavy in the transfer portal a lot? The goal was never the division. The goal is to play, grow, and love your college years. Chase the fit, not the logo. And if you want help finding that fit, that's exactly what the Recruit Ready Challenge does. It's a proven plan that's helped over 1,000 athletes play in college at the level that's actually right for them. There's a waitlist, uh, right now, but comment recruit and I'll let you know the moment it opens again. See you soon.
