South African student-athletes often aspire to play US college sports at the highly competitive National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division 1 (D1) level. However, starting in a lower league or athletic association before transferring to D1 has many advantages.

What is NCAA D1?

D1 is the highest level of college sports competition in the US and includes many of the largest and most well-known universities and athletic programmes.

There are 352 NCAA D1 schools across the US, but it is the toughest division to get into. It can be extremely challenging as the programmes are incredibly competitive and the training schedules are tough.

The transition to this high-intensity environment can be daunting for many international athletes. Starting in a lower division, such as NCAA Division 2 (D2), Division 3 (D3), or associations like the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), and the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA), allow athletes to gain valuable game time and refine their skills in a slightly less pressured environment.

It helps to understand the different US college sport organisations to make an informed choice.

Advantages of starting in lower sporting leagues

  • Development opportunity: Competing in a lower league allows athletes to refine their skills, gain confidence and adjust to the higher intensity of collegiate athletics without the immediate pressure of a D1 programme.
  • Academic adjustment: Getting used to a new country, academic system and training schedule can be overwhelming. A lower division gives athletes a chance to improve their academic standing or meet specific eligibility requirements needed for D1 programmes.
  • Playing time: Athletes will likely get significantly more playing time in other leagues, helping them showcase their abilities and build a competitive resume.
  • Cost: US college tuition can be expensive, especially at D1 schools. Smaller colleges, such as junior colleges, are more affordable, allowing athletes to save on tuition before transferring to a D1 school.
  • Recruitment advantage: Strong performance in other leagues can attract the attention of D1 coaches and recruiters who may have initially overlooked an athlete. The NAIA and NJCAA divisions often have more flexible recruitment criteria, making it easier for international athletes to secure a US sports scholarship.

South African athletes who took this path

Swimmers Michael Deans and Gina Miller both started at Indian River State College (IRSC), which competes in the NJCAA, and went on to swim for top D1 programmes at the University of Alabama and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas respectively. Fellow swimmer Calvin Coetzee, who started at Lindsey Wilson College (NAIA), transferred to the D1 University of Cincinnati.

Gina, originally from Johannesburg, who attended St. Stithians Girls’ College, earned 13 All-American titles and set the NJCAA record in the 500- and 1000-yard freestyle. Gina’s exceptional performance at IRSC paved the way for her transfer to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where she now competes for the UNLV Rebels.

Michael, also from Johannesburg and who attended St. Stithians Boy-s’ College, followed a similar path. After a standout career at IRSC, where he won multiple NJCAA titles, Michael transferred to the University of Alabama. As a member of the Crimson Tide, he made a name for himself in breaststroke events, earning top rankings in the school’s history and consistently delivering solid performances at the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Championships. Michael is currently doing his graduate studies.

Calvin, from Durban and a graduate of Clifton High School, began his journey at Lindsey Wilson College, an NAIA institution in Kentucky. Calvin excelled at the NAIA National Championships, where he claimed first place in the 200-yard freestyle. He later transferred to the University of Cincinnati, where he broke programme records in the 800-yard freestyle relay and delivered top finishes in freestyle events at the American Athletic Conference Championships. After graduating in 2023, Calvin relocated to Australia.

These sports journeys highlight the value of starting in smaller leagues and building the skills and confidence for successful transfers to D1 programmes.

Making the transition to NCAA D1

For South African athletes considering this pathway, here are some tips:

  • Do your research: Focus on lower-division schools with strong track records of athlete transfers to D1.
  • Build relationships: Connect with coaches and recruiters to learn about opportunities.
  • Focus on academics: Meet the academic requirements to ensure a seamless transfer.
  • Seek guidance: Use platforms like Sable International that specialise in connecting international student-athletes with US colleges.

If you want to further your sporting career at a US university, contact one of our sports recruiters who will be happy to chat with you about your options. Fill in our free online evaluation or send us an email at sports@sableinternational.com.

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