About Us

Navigate Athletics was founded to serve as a trusted guide for student-athletes and their families as they navigate the often overwhelming college recruitment and onboarding process. We know that every athlete's journey is different, from timelines and eligibility to finding the right academic, athletic, and cultural fit.

Our mission is to provide clarity, confidence, and personalized support at every step. Whether you're building your first highlight reel, drafting outreach emails to college coaches, or preparing for your transition onto campus, Navigate Athletics LLC offers expertise, encouragement, and honest insight to help you succeed.

We prioritize exceptional service, transparent communication, and a deep commitment to helping student-athletes achieve their goals — both on the field and in the classroom.

Close-up of a soccer goal post on a green grass field with white boundary lines.
Portrait of Navigate Athletics LLC Founder, Jake Petty

Jake Petty is the founder of Navigate Athletics, LLC, and a committed advocate for student-athletes and their families. With a strong foundation in academic advising, athletic administration, and independent school enrollment, Jake has dedicated his career to helping students succeed in the classroom, in athletics, and throughout the complex college recruitment journey.

Jake began his career at the University of Oklahoma, where he spent six years in the athletic department working as both an academic mentor and athletic academic advisor. There, he supported over 300 student-athletes across a variety of sports, helping them balance rigorous academic expectations with the demands of competing at the Division I level. His role focused on academic planning, NCAA eligibility, time management, and student development, all critical pillars of student-athlete success.

After his time at OU, Jake transitioned to the independent school sector, where he serves as Director of Enrollment Management and Admissions. In this role, he leads the full admissions process from inquiry through enrollment, guiding hundreds of families through one of the most important decisions of their lives. He develops and implements multi-year enrollment strategies, strengthens retention efforts, and collaborates with school leadership on marketing, financial aid policy, and student experience initiatives. His ability to build authentic relationships with families and communicate the value of an independent school education has been a hallmark of his work.

For more than two years, Jake also served as Athletic Director while continuing in his enrollment leadership role. This unique dual position gave him a well-rounded perspective on how athletics, academics, and school culture intersect — and how critical it is to guide students holistically.

Jake founded Navigate Athletics, LLC to fill a growing need: honest, individualized support for families navigating the recruiting and college onboarding process. His approach is warm, transparent, and strategic — helping student-athletes find the right fit, stay organized, and feel confident every step of the way.

Meet Jake Petty

Education and Certifications

  • M.Ed., University of Oklahoma
    Adult & Higher Education, Emphasis in Intercollegiate Athletic Administration

  • B.S., University of Kansas
    Sport Management

  • CAEP – Certificate for Admission & Enrollment Professionals

  • NFHS Coach Level 3

A yellow tennis ball on a blue tennis court near a white line and a teal wall.

  • We work with student-athletes and their families at all stages of the recruitment journey, whether you're just starting to explore your options or preparing to commit to a program.

  • Yes! In addition to recruiting support, we help families navigate the transition to college life, including academic preparation, time management, and athlete-specific onboarding needs.

  • Absolutely. While each sport has its own timeline and culture, our approach is personalized to fit your individual goals and athletic pathway.

  • We do not make guarantees, and you should be cautious of any service that does. Instead, we promise honest feedback, expert strategy, and support designed to maximize your opportunities.

  • Unlike generic platforms, we offer one-on-one, personalized support. We approach the recruiting process with an academic and enrollment mindset. Our guidance is tailored to your athlete’s goals, strengths, and timeline, not a one-size-fits-all formula.

  • The earlier, the better, ideally during freshman or sophomore year. However, we work with students at all stages of the process, including juniors and seniors ready to take action now. If you are a transfer student, we would love to help you navigate that process.

Ready To Get Started?

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