@frenchclasher we have a friend who recently graduated from West Point, another who is started USNA this past month, and a female athlete who will be attending USNA next year.
All 3 students have planned, researched, dreamed and prepared about attending their chosen Academy for YEARS. They actively started in 9th grade, preparing for classes, leadership roles, community service and sports for the next 4 years. While only 1 is pursuing collegiate level sports, all 3 were varsity athletes, followed intense military-style training during high school. They did exactly what it takes to attempt to get an appointment. All 3 are diehard, off the charts, 
proud citizens…ready to serve.
Just preparing you, getting an appointment won’t be easy. And not being at least an Eagle Scout, in JROTC or varsity letterman will hurt your chance (IMO).