<p>Another point- look beyond the sport and consider employment opportunities beyond college. He should be thinking of possible majors that are a good fit for him and if his college choices offer them, as well as how that department can accomodate his learning needs. Many HS athletes who are really into their sport will abandon it once they are in college so be sure the rest of the college fits him as well. He may find time for club level sports and spend the needed extra time on academics instead of pushing to be a varsity athlete.</p>
<p>There is nothing wrong with going to a “safe” school and a “match” is fine too.</p>
<p>The transition to college courses, etc, plus athletic practices, meets, etc. can be overwhelming. </p>
<p>As your son has some issues, I would set him up to succeed, as we all should, and forgo status. </p>
<p>Both of my sons chose their “safety” schools. Older son was Valedictorian of Long Island school. Steller transcript, etc. and decided on a full ride from a great school “safety”, with lots of great perks for him over the $50K first choice. We should (if the economy does not worsen) have money to pay for grad school for him. Younger son will be entering college this fall. Accepted at all the schools he applied to (and many were matches and safties) and he picked a saftey with a great program in his major. He does not care about status of a school (ie USNWR rankings) although this school has a very good ranking for his major, engineering. With one of the toughest majors, it seemed smart to be a top student in the program, than go in at the bottom of the group.
Again- hoping to set my son up to succeed in the major he wants. </p>
<p>Good luck with your search. With the current economy, definitely keep that in mind when applying. Things certainly changed between the time the class of 2009 applied and got their acceptances. There are plenty of great state schools that your son will get a great education at and if div. 1 will give $$$$. the 3 hour radius can be very limiting.</p>