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Are you prepared for what comes after high school?

More Than Just a PR

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<h2 style="white-space:pre-line">The College Search Process Begins With YOU</h2>
At PPRC, we work with high school athletes not just to help them run faster, but to prepare for what comes next. Our coaching experience offers full-circle support for athletes who want to compete at the next level and build a future that aligns with their goals on and off the track. 
Ready to take the next step? Fill out the interest form below and follow us on Instagram <a style="color:#e03e2d" href="https://www.instagram.com/pprc_running/" target="_blank">@pprc_running</a> for our weekly tips and real talk on what it takes to get recruited the right way.

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What We Offer

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<li style="text-align: left;">One-on-one support navigating the college recruiting process</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Assistance with building outreach emails, organizing communication with coaches, and evaluating program fit</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Insight into how college coaches think, based on our experience coaching at the college level</li>
</ul>

Recruiting Process Guidance

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<li style="text-align: left;">Personalized training plans based on your goals, event demands, and season schedule</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Coaching in race strategy and valuable feedback</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Strength and mobility work to stay healthy and consistent</li>
</ul>

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Performance Analysis & Feedback

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<li style="text-align: left;">Counseling support in choosing degree programs that match your interests and career opportunities</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Help identifying schools where you can thrive athletically, academically, and professionally</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Honest feedback about which level (DI, DII, DIII, NAIA, JUCO) makes sense for your goals</li>
</ul>

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Academic & Career Alignment

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<h2 style="white-space:pre-line">Who It's For</h2>
<ul>
<li>Freshmen and sophomores building a strong foundation</li>
<li>Juniors looking to break through and get noticed by college coaches</li>
<li>Seniors who need a focused recruiting push or guidance when choosing a college</li>
<li>Parents looking for clarity and confidence in supporting their athlete's future</li>
</ul>
Before you start emailing coaches or making a college list, take a moment to evaluate where you're at. Download our free PDF "Are You Recruitable?" checklist; it's the same criteria many college coaches use to assess fit.

Recent blog posts

<h3>The Landscape Has Changed</h3>For years, college coaches built their rosters primarily by recruiting high school athletes. But today, that landscape is shifting fast.The rise of the NCAA Transfer Portal, an increase in international recruiting, and recent developments in JUCO eligibility rules are reshaping how programs fill their rosters. High school athletes are feeling the squeeze, and those who aren’t prepared early risk being left behind.If you’re aiming to compete at the next level, it’s critical to understand how these shifts are affecting your opportunities, timelines, and expectations.<h3>The Transfer Portal</h3>The transfer portal has become a powerful tool for college coaches to reshape their rosters with less risk.<ul><li>Transfers bring college experience—they’ve adjusted to training, academics, and competition.</li><li>Coaches often view them as a safer bet—they know what they’re getting.</li><li>With limited scholarships, many programs prioritize athletes who can contribute immediately.</li></ul>The downside for high school athletes?Coaches, especially at the DI and top-tier DII levels, are far less likely to take a chance on unproven athletes when they can recruit someone who’s already competed at the collegiate level.<h3>The Rise in International Recruiting</h3>Another trend shifting the landscape: U.S. programs are recruiting internationally at unprecedented levels.<ul><li>Programs across DI, DII, NAIA, and JUCO are targeting international athletes, especially in distance events.</li><li>Many arrive with advanced training, consistent performances, and often lower scholarship expectations.</li><li>Some have experience from national teams or professional training environments.</li></ul>The result? A growing share of roster spots is being filled by international recruits who are ready to score points right away.<h3>JUCO Eligibility Waiver: Important but Temporary</h3>Recent legal rulings have allowed some JUCO athletes transferring into four-year schools in 2025 to apply for a temporary waiver that could extend their eligibility up to six total years of collegiate competition.But here’s the fine print:<ul><li>This is a one-time exception, not a permanent rule.</li><li>It only applies to a specific group of athletes whose eligibility would have ended after the 2024–25 season.</li><li>The NCAA is currently appealing the decision that allowed it.</li><li>Athletes must meet strict academic and eligibility criteria.</li></ul>Bottom line: This is a rare exception, not a trend to rely on. High school athletes should not count on extra years when planning their athletic future.<h3>What This Means for High School Athletes</h3>You’re no longer just competing with your peers. You’re competing with:<ul><li>NCAA transfer athletes who are older and more experienced</li><li>International athletes with backgrounds competing at a high-level</li><li>JUCO transfers with potential 4–6 years of eligibility</li></ul>Which means:<ul><li>Coaches are recruiting earlier</li><li>There are fewer roster spots and scholarships available</li><li>Waiting until senior year to get serious can cost you, not just at DI, but at DII, NAIA, and even JUCO programs </li></ul><h3>How to Stay in the Game</h3>Start EarlyCoaches begin building their classes around juniors, sometimes even earlier for top performers. If you’re not on their radar by the end of XC season (November), it’s possible that roster space is already limited.Create a list of ~10 schools by the end of junior year. Narrow it to 5 by summer. By the end of XC, aim to be choosing between 2–3 strong fits.Be CompleteIt’s not just about PRs. Academic eligibility, communication, character, and consistency all matter.Coaches get frustrated when athletes:<ul><li>Don’t apply to their school</li><li>Haven’t decided on a major</li><li>Haven’t taken the SAT/ACT (if required)</li><li>Are inconsistent or vague in communication</li></ul>Reach Out with IntentionDon’t DM a coach saying “Hey.” Send a professional email with:<ul><li>Your top times and events</li><li>Why you’re interested in their program</li><li>What you value in a coach, culture, and development path</li></ul>Consider ALL LevelsThere are incredible opportunities at DII, DIII, NAIA, and JUCO. Don’t chase logos—chase fit.A lot of high school athletes dream of trying out and walking on at a DI program, hoping to earn a spot. While that can happen, it’s rare and the numbers back it up.Only about 2%&nbsp;of high school athletes go on to compete at the Division I level, and that number drops even lower in distance events. Most the ~ 1 million HS track and XC athletes will never race in a DI uniform.Think of it like Rudy—inspiring, emotional, but not how most college athletics works.Most DI programs are near roster limits. Coaches have limited travel slots, training attention, and bandwidth to invest in “maybe” athletes. Even when you make the team, you may not get the same support or race opportunities as scholarship athletes.Ask yourself: Do I want to be a program piece—or a practice body?Get GuidanceYou don’t have to figure this out alone. Having a coach or mentor who understands the recruiting process can save you months of stress—and help you land somewhere you’ll thrive.Final TakeawayThe transfer portal. International recruiting. JUCO waivers.These aren’t trends—they’re now part of the system. Recruiting is changing rapidly, and if you want to land a roster spot, you need more than talent—you need a strategy.The earlier you prepare, the better your chances.<h3>Need Some Guidance?</h3>I work with high school athletes and families, not just in training and racing, but in navigating the recruiting process, finding the right academic fit, and preparing for life at the next level.If you’re not sure where to start or feel like you’re falling behind, let’s talk.Tap the links to:✅ Fill out the <a data-mce-href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1WrrqshhRabb48n2j4QomhKJm6f-VlZyvUF6qUnGythE/edit" href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1WrrqshhRabb48n2j4QomhKJm6f-VlZyvUF6qUnGythE/edit" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HS Questionnaire</a>✅ Download the <a data-mce-href="file:///Users/MattLowe/Downloads/Are%20You%20Recruitable_%20A%20College%20Coach%E2%80%99s%20Checklist%20for%20HS%20Athletes.pdf" href="file:///Users/MattLowe/Downloads/Are%20You%20Recruitable_%20A%20College%20Coach%E2%80%99s%20Checklist%20for%20HS%20Athletes.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“Are You Recruitable?”</a> checklist📩 Reach me directly: <a href="mailto:matt.lowe@pprunning.com">matt.lowe@pprunning.com</a>&nbsp;

Episode 2: How the Transfer Portal, International Recruiting & JUCO Eligibility Are Reshaping Recruiting

<h3>The Truth About Getting Recruited</h3>When I was coaching at the college level, dozens of athletes and parents would reach out asking the same question:“What time do I need to run to get recruited?”But here’s the truth: performance is just one piece of the puzzle. Many other factors contribute to what coaches are really looking for. And if red flags are visible to any coach, such as a poor attitude, lack of communication, low coachability, or struggles in the classroom, even a fast runner can be passed up. College coaches are looking for more than just PRs; they’re looking for the right fit for their program.And now, with the rise of NIL, the transfer portal, Title IX compliance pressures, and the NCAA’s shifting structure, recruiting is more complicated than ever, especially for families sending their first kid to college.<h3>Why I’m Launching This Series—And What to Expect</h3>This series is a practical guide for aspiring college athletes and their families. My goal is to simplify a complex process and provide you with the clarity, tools, and confidence to navigate the recruiting process with intention.Over the upcoming weeks, I’ll be breaking down key topics like:<ul><li>What coaches look for beyond race times</li><li>How the transfer portal is reshaping recruiting</li><li>The pros and cons of the JUCO route</li><li>How to effectively engage with college coaches</li><li>Understanding your true options: DI, DII, DIII, NAIA, and JUCO</li><li>Why your training background and “trainability” matter</li><li>What happens when you wait too long to start the process</li><li>And how the NCAA settlement is changing the game—for everyone</li></ul>This series is for high school prospects and their families, whether they're a freshman planning ahead or a senior still unsure of their next step. But it's also bigger than just recruiting tips. Through my coaching services, I help athletes not only race faster and build strong training foundations, but also prepare for the next level - whether it's through navigating the recruiting process, identifying schools that align with their goals, or choosing degree programs that match future industry demand.&nbsp;This is about long-term fit, not just athletic success, but academic and career alignment too.&nbsp;<h3>From the Coach’s Side of the Desk</h3>When I was recruiting, I wasn’t just looking at times.I asked about their training background, evaluated their body language, requested transcripts, and followed recruits on social media. I used platforms like Athletic.net, MileSplit, and TFRRS to scout talent. I connected with athletes through Instagram, phone calls, and Zoom calls with families.But that was just the surface, because the real decision-making happened through conversations, gauging character, attitude, and whether a recruit aligned with the vision I was building.Most coaches follow a similar process and do the same thing. And as recruiting becomes more selective, they’re becoming even more intentional about who they bring in and why.<h3>What You Can Do Now</h3>✅ Check out my webpage for <a title="College-Bound Athlete Support" href="https://pprcrunning.com/college-recruiting-support-for-tf-athletes" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://pprcrunning.com/college-recruiting-support-for-tf-athletes">College-Bound Athlete Support</a>&nbsp; 📲 Follow me on Instagram <a data-mce-href="https://www.instagram.com/pprc_running/" href="https://www.instagram.com/pprc_running/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@pprc_running</a> for visual breakdowns📥 Download the free “<a data-mce-href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kbUrFFFnOeVPk3OmX-F3o0Ycue6XNgXb/view?usp=drive_link" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kbUrFFFnOeVPk3OmX-F3o0Ycue6XNgXb/view?usp=drive_link" title="Are You Recruitable - A Checklist for HS Athletes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Are You Recruitable</a>?” checklist and take your first step today

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Process Performance RC

Process Performance RC is an LLC dedicated to performance-driven coaching that empowers runners of all levels—from high school athletes to elite competitors and everyday runners—to train with purpose and consistency. Through personalized coaching, community-driven teams, and expert guidance, PPRC provides high-quality training rooted in science, experience, and a passion for the process. Our mission is to make performance accessible, sustainable, and deeply rewarding for every athlete we coach. 

More Than Just a PR

The College Search Process Begins With YOU

What We Offer

Who It's For

Recent blog posts

Episode 2: How the Transfer Portal, International Recruit...

What College Coaches Look For Beyond Times

Where Do We Draw the Line? Fairness, Fatigue, and the Fut...

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