Star athletes get recruited. They’re in their own admissions category. The universities also want all around students. It depends on what drives the athletes and how they perform on their PIQ‘s.
My daughter was a recruited athlete, but she was also a powerhouse in academics and a strong writer.
Our son was a very good athlete and was a star on his team, but that’s not what drove him.
The letters of recommendation were for the private schools that they got into.
All of these kids are working extremely hard, you’re not the only one, but there’s only so much space. So you have to include schools where everyone isnt applying.
Visit the schools that you did get into. You’ll be surprised!