Verbal Commitments

[seeyajohn]

There has been considerable discussion on the wrestling podcasts about verbal commitments and particularly early commitments. This has been fueled by the Iowa decommitments and Busiello’s early commitment to PSU. Despite a long discussion about verbals on TRow and Funky, they never explained what exactly happens when a wrestler makes that commitment.

I have no understanding of what is involved. Has there necessarily been communication between the wrestler and the school to which he makes the commitment? If so, is there any verbal agreement about the amount of scholarship that will be involved in the final LOI?

It seems that a high percentage of verbals eventually sign with that school. Is that simply a matter of honor between the two parties or is there more to it?

 

[RoarLions1]

From the NCAA...

"Verbal Commitment
This phrase is used to describe a college-bound student-athlete's commitment to a school before he or she signs (or is able to sign) a National Letter of Intent. A college-bound student-athlete can announce a verbal commitment at any time. While verbal commitments have become very popular for both college-bound student-athletes and coaches, this "commitment" is NOT binding on either the college-bound student-athlete or the college or university. Only the signing of the National Letter of Intent accompanied by a financial aid agreement is binding on both parties."

My thoughts...while we know of the 2 recent Iowa de-commits, and PSU's as well over the last several years, they are still rarer than the higher profile sports such as football and basketball. I do not have data that proves that, just comments from our coaches.
As far as "who says what to whom", the rules for contact are strict, and pretty one-side (must be initiated by the prospective recruit) until after their Junior year (coaches can call once per week, starting July 1 after your junior year). Doubt any "promises" are made, though financial aid is probably mentioned occasionally.

 

[21Guns]

Next up Mr Fix....I have a feeling......