Terms & Definitions

Dead Period

What is the dead period in college athletics?

A dead period is that period of time when it is not permissible to make in-person recruiting con- tacts or evaluations on or off the member institution’s campus or to permit official or unofficial visits by prospective student-athletes to the institution’s campus.

What can NCAA coaches do during the dead period of recruiting?

According to the NCAA, during a dead period a college coach may not have face to face contact with college bound student athletes or their parents, and may not watch student-athletes compete or visit their high schools. Coaches may write and telephone student-athletes or their parents.

What can NCAA coaches not do during the dead period of recruiting?

During a dead period, coaches are prohibited from having recruiting contacts or evaluations with prospective student-athletes whether on or off campus.

Why is the dead period important in college athletics recruiting?

The dead period was put in place to protect the student-athlete. It is enforced to give student-athletes time to evaluate their options without coaches or schools pushing them for answers or feedback. It gives all recruited athletes the same break to relax and think about what institution they would like to sign with.

 


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LYLE ADAMS
Lyle Adams

SPRY'S FOUNDER. CEO &NCAA MEN'S SOCCER CHAMPION

Lyle was a member of the 2007 NCAA Men’s Soccer Championship team at Wake Forest. After embarking on a professional soccer career, Lyle transitioned to the tech industry, where he was one of the first 100 employees at Uber, designing platforms and tools for data consumers. Lyle also holds a Master’s in Sports Management from Columbia University.