Q&A: What is a Walk-On

What does it mean to walk onto a college sports team?

A walk-on is an athlete who must try out to make a college team. Athletes who haven't been offered a roster spot -- and therefore aren't "recruits" -- typically have to go to open tryouts.

This is a situation that should be avoided at all costs. Walk on tryouts are famously unfair. Players often find themselves having a very limited opportunity to prove their ability. Instead, you want to show up on campus knowing that there's a place for you on the team.

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