<p>The availability of preferred packaging in Fin Aid or merit awards for those athletes that do not get an athletic award is really directly related to the clout the athletic director, specific coach, and specific sport has on the school. Fin Aid and Admissions really hate any, any, any influences on their decision making powers and only give way, when things are so structured so that they have to do so. Your best bet is to talk directly the coach. S/he will make it very clear that s/he has no say, which may or may not be true, but then if s/he really wants your student, will see what s/he can do. It may well be nothing. </p>
<p>My athletic recruit son chose a top D-3 (top in his sport for that division and also a highly selective school in terms of admissions) college. His coach was adamant that he had no influence in any thing, but it was not true. He was directly responsible for the admissions of those who could make his team spin, and many border line applicants were so accepted. The team members all got nice packages, nothing outrageous but very good for that college. It is against the rules to give preferential packaging to D-3 athletes and also in many schools who are in leagues that do not give athletic scholarships, but sports can be lumped under extracurricular activities and the desirability and therefore the appointment of certain awards and aid can be given under those terms. Athletics are not excluded as a campus/ community enhancing activity or special skill in general terms. But you can clearly see how strongly the sport is regarded in the team standings within its league and division. Also in how aggressive the coach is and how many benefits the team is enjoying. DS’s team enjoyed a number of perks that were commensurate with the standings of his team within the national D3 teams. Other sports at that school did not get the same treatment. This coach took personal care of his team members as well, by the way, and get tabs on them academically and personally through the year. He was more involved in them and knew their issues than the academic deans, and advisors. Sad.</p>