Do college walk-ons get scholarships?

By Jason Bolton June 27, 2023 18:57

Photo by AP/Rebecca S. Gratz

College sports are a dream for many high school athletes, but the reality is that only a small percentage of them will receive athletic scholarships. The rest have to find other ways to make it to the collegiate level, and one of those ways is to become a walk-on. But do college walk-ons get scholarships? The answer is yes, but it's not guaranteed.

First, let's define what a walk-on is. A walk-on is a non-scholarship player who wants to try out for the team. These players are not guaranteed a spot on the team, and they often have to compete with scholarship players for playing time. However, if they are good enough, they can earn a scholarship in their second year.

So, how does a walk-on earn a scholarship? Typically, walk-ons do not receive athletic aid, but they are first in line when scholarship money becomes available. This means that if a scholarship player leaves the team or graduates, the coach can offer that scholarship to a walk-on who has proven himself on the field.

It's important to note that scholarships are not guaranteed for walk-ons. They have to earn their spot on the team just like any other player, and they have to continue to prove themselves year after year. However, there are special moments when walk-ons do get scholarships, and these moments are often some of the most emotional and heartwarming in college sports.

One such moment happened in 2017 when the University of Kentucky football team surprised walk-on tight end C.J. Conrad with a full scholarship during a team meeting. The video of Conrad's reaction went viral, and it's easy to see why. Conrad had worked hard for years to earn a spot on the team, and his dedication had finally paid off.

Another example is former Alabama walk-on J.T. Gray, who earned a scholarship after his sophomore season. Gray had played on special teams and as a backup safety, and his hard work and determination earned him a scholarship for his junior and senior years.

But scholarships are not the only reason to become a walk-on. Walk-ons also have the opportunity to earn playing time and to showcase their skills in front of coaches and scouts. Many walk-ons have gone on to have successful college careers and even to play professionally.

However, becoming a walk-on is not easy. Walk-ons have to be proactive in reaching out to coaches and showing their skills. They also have to be committed to their academics, as many walk-ons do not receive athletic aid and have to pay for their education themselves.

So, can you play Division I sports without a scholarship? The answer is yes, but it's not easy. NCAA Division II and III, NAIA schools, junior colleges, and some NCAA Division I colleges all welcome walk-on athletes. However, it's important to note that playing at the Division I level is a big commitment, both athletically and academically.

In conclusion, college walk-ons can earn scholarships, but it's not guaranteed. Walk-ons have to work hard and prove themselves year after year, but if they are dedicated and committed, they can earn a spot on the team and even a scholarship. Becoming a walk-on is not easy, but it's a great way to showcase your skills and to pursue your dreams of playing college sports.