Steve Crook is in his 24th season coaching the Concordia University Wisconsin softball team, and he's no thief when it comes to success–during his tenure, he's earned a slew of accomplishments, including five conference coach of the year awards and becoming the winningest coach in program history with over 500 wins to his name. But perhaps what's most impressive about Coach Crook's resume is his team's growth and development over the years. Starting his career in 2000, Crook's inaugural season ended with a .200 winning percentage which gradually increased over time into a .857 winning percentage last season. 

Any athlete that craves growth and success could find an ideal home at Concordia University Wisconsin. Here's Coach Crook's advice on how you can get on his radar and make that happen:

What is the most important quality you look for in a recruit? 

We look for highly skilled players, with passion and personal character!

Related: Character and Coachability: Traits of Recruits That College Coaches Love

What is the best way for a recruit to get on your radar?

Attend [one of] our camps. Video is a good start, seeing them play is even better but working with an athlete is our preference.

When should an athlete contact you? 

We like to start working with our recruits during their junior year.

What are your expectations for incoming players in the classroom, in the weight room, and on the field?

We recruit motivated students who are looking for academics first. They will participate in a structured weight program five days a week while they are here.

What are the do's and don'ts of being recruited?

Don't have parents be the primary contact. We want to talk with the athlete. Make campus visits and get to know the coach. Don't call the coach by their first name.

Related: Recruiting Horror Story: When Parents Overstep

What is the best advice you can offer a recruit?

Academics first! Finding the right fit academically and then softball is the formula we follow.

What really jumps out to you when reviewing a recruit's highlight tape? 

Hustle. Not everyone is tremendously athletic or highly skilled but everyone can hustle.

What are the main do's and don'ts for a recruit's highlight tape?

We like to see multiple angles with as [few cuts] as possible. Five swings or multiple ground balls in a row are better than one at a time.

Related: Want to Wow Recruiters? Top 5 Platforms to Help You Create the Best Highlight Reel

What advice do you have for recruits who get turned down by their dream schools? What are their options if they don't gain the recruiting attention they desire?

Athletics is humbling. When things don't turn out the way we hoped or expected it is disappointing. It is important to see the opportunity and move forward. Just like we coach our players to do after a tough game or bad at bat. The right school is out there–refocus and move forward!

How big a factor is social media when recruiting players? What advice do you have for athletes regarding social media?

Very important! Unfortunately everything we do on social media does not go away. Coaches want players who understand that their actions have consequences and this is one measure. Use social media to express yourself but understand the potential consequences and own up to them.

Have a story idea or know an awesome athlete/coach we should interview? Email us at [email protected]

Image Credit: CUW Athletics

* Originally published on March 10, 2023, by 2aDays Staff