Only about 7% of high school athletes play in college, which might ramp up the pressure for recruits in the thick of their recruiting process–but take comfort in the fact that within that extremely selective 7%, most college athletes are not what most would consider “superstars.” Although some former recruits who are now household names enter the recruiting process as professional-caliber athletes (see: the Zion Williamsons of the world), the vast majority of recruits are just talented high schoolers looking to level up. So, how are they supposed to approach recruiting?
Communicate
To begin your recruiting process as an average recruit, you have to reach out to coaches because they won't come to you. In an interview with Illinois Wesleyan Men's Assistant Soccer Coach Matthew Kemp, he emphasized “It's never too early to reach out,” and went on to say that “you should definitely start with an email with every detail about yourself that could matter and with a clip of you playing.” If you are interested in a university, be proactive–get on their radar and keep them updated on your progress.
Related: Rate Coach Kemp
Get Competitive
On the playing side of things, get on a team that competes. It's extremely important to play on a team that gets out there to the big tournaments and showcases because that's where the coaches are and that's where you will be seen. Not only that, if the school you are interested in, and especially a school that is interested in you, holds camps during the summer, get to one. It is the best surefire way to be seen.
Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits
Be Well-Rounded
Coaches aren't just looking for good athletes–they're looking for solid people, too. So play hard, be a leader, stay out of trouble, and have a good character to your name. Be yourself and keep it simple. These are the little things coaches will notice and it will be more likely to get yourself noticed and wanted.
Film Matters
After playing in these tournaments and showcases, make highlight videos. Highlight videos are so beneficial especially when a coach from a school you are interested in can't get out to see you. Coach Kemp touched on it in his interview when he said every initial email should have one. In addition, coaches love to see the progress if you have multiple ones as well.
Related: Lights, Camera, Action! 4 Tips for Creating a Highlight Video That Will Wow Recruiters
These are the simple things non-superstar athletes wanting to play in college should do, as they can help them get noticed and recruited to schools they want to play at. To dive in deeper and learn more check out 2aDay's DIY recruiting guide!
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* Originally published on July 29, 2022, by Scott Abramson
