Asking questions to your potential coaches is a very important part of the recruiting process for all parties involved. From a coach's perspective, doing so shows them that the athlete is really interested in the school and wants to learn more. For the athlete, it is extremely beneficial to ask good questions because it can help them understand the team culture, the coach's training philosophy, the school method and how athletics programs work, all of which are important when deciding on which school you want to attend.
Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits
For international athletes it is especially important to gain clarity about the recruiting process and the U.S. college athlete concept. You can ask general questions or more specific and personal questions, but here is a list of 15 questions every international athlete should consider asking.
- What is the best part of being a coach at ……? (college or university)
This question can help you understand the values of the coach and the team atmosphere.
- What is your coaching philosophy?
With this question you'll get a better feel for their coaching style.
- What are your goals for next season as a team?
This question helps you understand the aspirations of the coach and team.
Related: Goals You Should Be Setting as an Athletic Recruit
- Are there any other international athletes on the team?
Figure out if there are more internationals on the team and consider that when making your decision.
- What do you like about having international athletes on the team?
Get a feel for what the coach thinks of you with this question
- Does the school have a lot of diversity?
If diversity is important to you, it's something you should consider when choosing the school you will attend.
- How is the team atmosphere?
This question can help you understand what you should expect from the team.
- How do you see me fitting into the team?
Very important information!
- In what aspect do you expect me to contribute to the team as an international student?
See if you'll be a good candidate for the team.
Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits
- How is the school environment?
Remember to ask questions about campus–this could be your new home for the next several years!
- What does a typical day of an athlete in your team look like?
It's important to know what your days are going to look like and how your life will change coming from a different country.
- What are the academic standards?
See if you fit in academically.
Related: Top 6 Academically Ranked Power Five Schools
- What academic support is offered to athletes?
Get a feel for any athlete-specific academic support the school offers.
- How is the weather?
As international students you need to consider the change of weather when choosing where you are going to live for the next four years.
- What's my next step?
Always ask this question if you are interested in the school and want to be up to date with everything.
Coming to a new country to continue your academic and athletic career is an awesome experience but it is important to know more about each potential school to make the right decision. Asking questions to possible future coaches is good to show interest in the school but it's most important to understand how the team functions and if it is what you are looking for. As international students you may have a lot of questions because you are about to start a completely different stage in your life so don't be afraid to ask.
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* Originally published on July 20, 2022, by Camila Cramer
