Signing day is special day in an athletes life

Today is a meaningful day in the life of a high school athlete. College football players around the country will be signing a National Letter of Intent to continue playing football (or their respective sport) at the next level.

To see what the papers look like, click here, courtesy of CNBC’s Darren Rovell.

On this spring signing day, thousands of student-athletes around the country will put the finishing touches on the next adventure of their life. Many of this kids desperately need this scholarship, otherwise they wouldn’t make it to college. Others, it represents their skill level and collegiate choices.

I remember many of the ceremonies I attended while at North Central High School. We were fortunate to have dozens of athletes play sports in college making for a very busy signing day. The one that stood out was in 2007, when Eric Gordon finally signed his letter of intent to Indiana University.

It’s a very celebratory day for the athlete, family, friends and school. It’s a culmination of what allowed him or her to stand above the competition.

Some make a dramatic signing but most follow thru on their verbal commitments. The top-talent guys desiring attention have multiple hats on the table, live television coverage and ‘pick the hat’ for their school of choice.

At least that’s better than this guy, Kevin Hart, who claimed he had many big-time Division I offers.  The kid wanted the attention. I kind of feel sorry for him.

Most will go about their business, have a small ceremony for family, and close friends. And they will be decked out in a hoodie and hat of their college choice.

Nonetheless, let them enjoy it. Many will try to play in the next level but most will fail. These athletes have made sacrifices, missed socializing to put athletics first. And in some cases, put academics to the side.

This morning following a ceremony, players will fax, yes fax their National Letter of Intent to their respective schools. In this technologically advanced world, faxing a document seems old fashion and out of date. It is. But it has become a tradition. Following the ole’ fax, a call from the coach usually follows.

Indiana has full signing day coverage and a live webcast beginning at 8 am, discussing the commits as they come in.

Notre Dame has complete coverage as well, beginning at 7 am here.

Purdue’s website was disappointing and advertise anything to note.