The Movement
Why Homeschool Athletics?
Homeschooling is the fastest-growing form of education in America. And homeschool athletes are proving they belong on the biggest stages — from NFL stadiums to college scholarships.
4M+
Homeschool Students
in the United States
5.4%
Annual Growth
2024-2025 school year
36%
States at Record
highest enrollment ever
15-30
Percentile Points
higher on standardized tests
By The Numbers
Homeschooling is Booming
According to Johns Hopkins University's Homeschool Research Lab, homeschooling grew at an average rate of 5.4% in the 2024-2025 school year— nearly three times the pre-pandemic growth rate. And this isn't just pandemic recovery: 36% of reporting states recorded their highest homeschool enrollment numbers ever, exceeding even the peaks reached during COVID-19.
The numbers tell the story: from approximately 2.5 million students in 2019 to over 4 million today, homeschooling has transformed from a fringe movement to a mainstream educational choice. States like South Carolina saw 21.5% growth, Vermont 17%, and New Hampshire 14.5%.
“A lot of times people have this stereotype of homeschoolers as not very athletic — it's like, go win a spelling bee or something like that. It's an honor for me to be the first one to do that.”
Tim Tebow
First Homeschooled Heisman Trophy Winner, 2007
Recognition From The White House
Presidential Acknowledgment
Letter received by the Homeschool Football Classic, August 2025
The Research
Why Families Choose Homeschooling
Safe Learning Environment
25% of parents cite safety concerns—including school environment, drugs, and negative peer pressure—as their primary reason for homeschooling.
Academic Quality
14.5% of parents chose homeschooling due to dissatisfaction with academic instruction at traditional schools.
Faith & Values
13% of families prioritize integrating religious instruction and moral education into their children's curriculum.
Flexibility & Individualization
Homeschooling allows tailored curricula that adapt to each child's learning style, pace, and interests.
Breaking Stereotypes
Homeschool Athletes Excel
Photo: Tim Tebow Foundation — timtebowfoundation.org
Tim Tebow — Beyond Football
When Tim Tebow won the Heisman Trophy in 2007, he became the first homeschooled athlete to receive college football's highest honor. His success helped inspire the “Tim Tebow Laws” that now allow homeschooled students to participate in public school athletics in 28+ states.
Tebow's path — homeschooled in Florida while playing for his local high school team — proved that homeschool students could compete at the highest levels. He went on to lead the Florida Gators to two national championships and play in the NFL.
But Tebow's greatest legacy isn't on the field. The Tim Tebow Foundation has impacted lives in over 115 nations — fighting human trafficking, supporting orphan care, and serving children with special needs. His vision started at age 15 in the Philippines and grew into a global movement rooted in faith, hope, and love. That's what homeschool character development looks like at its best.
Famous Homeschool Athletes
Tim Tebow isn't alone. Homeschooling has produced Olympic champions, professional athletes, and world-class competitors across every sport:
Venus & Serena Williams — Among the greatest tennis players in history, homeschooled from elementary through high school.
Shaun White — Three-time Olympic gold medalist, homeschooled to accommodate his training schedule.
Maria Sharapova — Five-time Grand Slam champion, homeschooled from age 11.
Joey Logano — Daytona 500 winner, homeschooled while racing from childhood.
Bethany Hamilton — Pro surfer who returned to competition after a shark attack, homeschooled throughout.
College & Beyond
The NCAA and NAIA fully recognize homeschooled students, making them eligible for athletic scholarships. Colleges actively recruit homeschool athletes, recognizing their discipline, self-motivation, and academic preparation.
Watch
Tim Tebow on Homeschooling
Tim Tebow — faith, football, and the foundation that carries his legacy beyond the scoreboard
The Data
Academic Excellence
Research consistently shows that homeschooled students excel academically. According to the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) and peer-reviewed studies:
Success Beyond the Classroom
The benefits extend beyond test scores. Research shows that homeschooled adults:
Participate in community service more frequently than the general population
Vote and attend public meetings at higher rates
Succeed at college at equal or higher rates
Internalize their parents' values at a high rate by adulthood
Score above average on social, emotional, and psychological development measures
Be Part of the Movement
The NHAA is building the infrastructure that homeschool athletic programs have needed for decades. Get involved.
Sources: Johns Hopkins Homeschool Research Lab (2025), National Home Education Research Institute, National Center for Education Statistics, EdChoice