So.... first anyone who generalizes about any level of play is probably mostly wrong. Every program is very different and there is a number of factors that go into that. For every massively serious, all about the softball 40-10 SEC D1 team there is a 10-40 SWAC team. The top D3 teams demand a lot more time from a player than lower-level D3teams and so forth. You can go across all the divisions and see massive differences between programs. It is all over the map and depends on individual coaches, funding, seriousness the university takes the program, etc, etc...
That said there are maximums you cannot exceed, though of course there are ways around this:
- NCAA rules on coach contact/led hour: This is coach-led activities defined by the NCAA for during and off-season. For the most part, D1 allows a larger number than D2 or D3
- Conference rules: Which may restrict teams further; for example the Ivies have further contact restrictions, especially during the off-season. Also, the 'fall season' is often restricted here as well.
- University rules: Many universities have defined non-athletic times or defined core class hours. For example, a university may prohibit any athletic activity between 8:30am and 3:30pm
- 'Voluntary' hours - over captain or team led. Or even just suggestions (i.e. the field and equipment shed is open, go for it). There is also weights/fitness which is managed by an athletic trainer.
Great information. I didn't know there were conference differences within a division.
Thanks!