<p>So ive been looking at the basic requirements for the Accademy, my academics are fine, but im reading that if you dont have any athletic participation in an organized and sanctioned league sport, your chances of getting an appointment are greatly reduced. </p>
<p>I dont have any… Should i look hard to try and find somthing i can do, or should i just try to rely on my academic scores to help me?</p>
<p>My understanding is that they look at the whole person and athletics is part of that equation. If possible join some sport, it may be worth it - at the very least it'll get you in shape for AFA when you get there!. Most of all - I think you need to be doing something you really enjoy. I have heard of people with no school sports get accepted. They want to be sure you are in condition to participate in the athletic/training enviornment as well as see the dedication etc. Grades are part of the equation as are EC's and sports. At least, that is my undestanding.</p>
<p>First of all, just curious what grade are you in?
- The thing about the academy is that the more of a "all-around" person you are the better, so like you said they definatly prefer a person having sports, but if you dont, it doesnt mean it cant happen. Correct me if I'm wrong hornetguy, but you didnt have any team sports either? right? so getting appointed/nominated can happen, its just everything else about you has to be that much more spectacular. Another thing that they like about sports is it allows one to show leadership qualities. So if your un-able to participate in sports, your going to need to find some way to demonstrate those leadership abilities, I.e clubs, volunteer service, church,scouts etc. Good luck.</p>
<p>Indeed, I never pursued a team sport. I have been in Taekwondo since 1998, as part of my plan to come here no less. I stayed very active in it, winning titles at the state and world level and also being certified as a national judge. I was pretty much told by the admissions office that I would have gotten an appointment earlier, but since I lacked the team sport it was put off till this time last year. My strong spot was in academics. I came from a strong school in very strong standings with good test scores and such. So, if you can find a good sport, team or not, and pursue it heavily while you can while keeping academics as strong as possible, you will be setting yourself up for success.</p>
<p>You really do need to get into some sports if you want a decent shot at an academy. They're looking for people involved with being a "teamate" and "leader" as well as the academics, so sign up for a sport that you can at least participate in. You don't have to be an all-american either....just showing participation is the critical thing. And being is shape will be the reward also.</p>
<p>Hornet - how's the TKO group there at AFA? Varsity or club level? Son is a blackbelt but a bit rusty....</p>
<p>Definitely want to echo Dknightfam about needing something (even if it's not a school sport or club sport) that shows the Academy you're fit and active and prepared for the physical rigors of the Academy. Another thing to consider is that a lack of athletic participation on your application does not necessarily show the admissions panel that you will successfully balance the overwhelming responsibilities at the Academy (academic, military, athletic, etc.). But that doesn't mean you have to be varsity captain of everything. ;) I got in with three JV sports. True, varsity XC and track slots are extremely competitive at my school, but still, I wasn't varsity. Balance is the key. Good luck! :)</p>
<p>Dknightfam, I actually didn't get involved in the clubs this year because I didn't think I would have time. I'm considering joining the Karate club next year. The TKD club is very sparring oriented, so I want the Karate club for the weapons and forms training. But I hear they're all good.</p>