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It takes a lot more than fancy footwork and hoop skills to get a college coach to notice you. You've got to have the total package, says Donnie Marsh, FIU's head basketball coach. If you're aiming for the collegiate level, especially if you're a sophomore or junior, says Marsh, you must concentrate on academics, exposure, talent, and character.

"A" is for Academics.
Didn't think they counted for much, huh? They do. You can't do much if you haven't taken the right classes and your SAT/ACT scores aren't up to par. "If you're academically qualified, that basically puts you on everybody's mailing list," says Marsh. Put yourself in the running for coach consideration by checking that your high school curriculum meets NCAA's eligibility requirements. (Surf www.ncaa.org, or call 800-638-3731 for a free copy of the latest Guide for the College-Bound Student-Athlete.)

Beyond School GamesCoaches are limited on how much time they can see you play during the school year. That's why summer programs like those offered by the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) are important, says Mike Sullivan, publisher of InsidersReport.com. Not only do they give coaches more time to see you play, says Sullivan, but coaches are also able to gauge your playing ability against top players from other states. Participating on traveling teams is also a power move, says Dave Telep, the national recruiting editor for Rivals.com. (Visit www.aausports.org for more details.)

One of the Good Guys You have completed the circle when you possess a winning personality and strong character, says Marsh. "I try to do a thorough background check on a player's character. I have to know how he handles himself as a citizen and what type of person he is."

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