Can junior high athletes be recruited?

While there's no formal "recruiting" in the way that exists for high school athletes in most sports, junior high athletes can absolutely be identified and contacted by coaches at higher levels. The methods and extent to which this happens vary greatly by sport and location, but it's not uncommon, especially in high-profile sports.

Here's a breakdown:

* No formal NCAA recruiting: The NCAA (governing body for college athletics in the US) has specific rules against recruiting junior high athletes. However, coaches can attend junior high games and identify talented players.

* Informal contact: Coaches might informally talk to a junior high athlete's coach or parents, expressing interest. They can't directly offer scholarships or make promises.

* Camps and showcases: Junior high athletes frequently participate in camps and showcases where college coaches are present. This is a legitimate way for coaches to evaluate talent.

* Social media: Coaches might follow athletes on social media platforms to monitor their progress.

* Sport-specific differences: The level of early identification varies tremendously between sports. In some sports like basketball and football, highly talented junior high athletes may receive significant attention, while in others, it might not happen until much later.

In short, while "recruiting" as a formal process doesn't exist, junior high athletes can and are often identified and tracked by coaches at higher levels. This typically involves informal contact and observation, with more formal recruitment beginning later in high school.