How important is the size/reputation of the high school?

My son is a young middle school football player. I am not saying he will be a D-1 prospect someday but on the other hand I would like to give him the best options should he achieve his goals. The options he has available to him would be one of the following:

1) small public HS; avg. coaching staff; weak to fair schedule,
in-out of play-offs, would probably see PT as a freshman
2) small Parochial HS; good coaching staff; strong schedule,
consistent play-off appearances; no PT until sophomore
3) larger school - farther away; very good coaching staff; better
than avg. schedule; consistently in play-offs; no PT until sophomore

I am sorry to have taken up so much of your time. Please understand that I am not some fanatical father living out his dreams through his son. I have been told by many people including coaches and that he has some special qualities. Therefore, I am just a father who wants to do what is best for his son who happens to have lofty goals. Any advice you could give would be greatly appreciated.

No problem at all asking me a question like that. I enjoy helping people understand the recruiting process. And by me helping you, it builds credibility that some other "salesy" scouting services don't have, so you may tell someone about me someday!

Bottom line is this...Can he play? I know you have seen that comment from me before, but it's so true. Ideally though, if he CAN play, the bigger the school (with a reputation) the better. BIG Fish in a BIG pond (i.e. ALL STATE from Trinity HS) is a no-brainer. From there, you need to choose. Ironically, if the kid used my services, I would feel OK with him being at a smaller school because I would promote the heck out of him. If he didn't do anything proactive, he would probably get more looks from the bigger HS. Coaching is an intangible...can't help you with that one.

FYI, don't worry about PT as a freshman. It's over-rated.

how about all state or like second or third team all state from corbin H.S.

All State will ALWAYS help as an indication that someone can play.

Wanted to ask a question about the dreaded "R" word and high schools. Is it as prevalent in other parts of the state as it has been in the mountains? Some coaches around here (and you know the ones I am referring to) do a better job than many colleges in getting proven talent to move into their school district.

HarlanHick-

Can't comment on that one, nor do I think this is the appropriate place for it. This is a college recruiting forum.

have you seen anyone play basketball from wayne county?if yes, can anyone on that team play d-1.

Have not seen any Wayne County hoopsters. Sorry.

Going to a well known school is certainly a plus. It can make or break you

but, if you are a really good athlete on a small school team, people may recognize you because there are not many other people to compete with you for the hype