Social media is a huge part of our daily lives–we love sharing interesting activities, posting insights, and checking brand new trends online. But when it comes to the recruiting process, will social media still play an essential role? Will coach teams track prospective recruiters' posts on social media platforms? The answer is yes, and that's not always a good thing for prospective athletes who aren't mindful of what they're posting.
There is a reason why successful programs, such as the Clemson and Florida State football teams, ban their players from using social media during their seasons–it can be distracting and plenty of eyes are on these platforms which makes elite athletes highly visible at all times. To help you navigate this potentially dangerous territory, we have some tips for you to cultivate a positive social media presence for yourself and avoid unwanted social media meltdowns!
Tip #1: Watch What You Post
Don't send direct messages to opposing players unless they're positive. As a general rule, don't put anything in writing you wouldn't want everyone to see.
Related: Send Tweet? Do's and Don'ts for Recruits on Social Media
Tip #2: Be a Good Teammate
Support your school's social media accounts and hype up your teammates and coaches as well. Loyalty goes a long way!
Tip #3: Communicate
Part of being a good teammate is also keeping each other accountable. Bring it to a teammate or leader of a team's attention if there is a picture that could jeopardize something for another teammate.
Related: 3 Simple Tips For Social Media Use During the Recruiting Process
Tip #4: Keep Everyone Posted
Generate hype by posting upcoming games and events on your profile in advance! This can also help keep you on top of your own calendar, so it's a win-win!
Tip #5: A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words…
Pictures can be dangerous! Do not post anything (even if you're of-age) that suggests or shows binge drinking, excessive partying, or anything offensive.
Related: Former BU Lacrosse Player Quintin Germain Talks Recruiting, Social Media, and More
Tip #6: Spread the Word
It might be somewhat annoying, but make sure other people around you know how you want to be portrayed on social media too. The last thing you want is for someone else to be posting unwanted pictures of you on social media since you can't control it.
In short, yes, coaches do track social media. The fact is, most coaches will even monitor prospective recruits' social media to ensure they're recruiting an athlete of good character. Social media is a supplemental method to know more about athletes so be mindful of what you post and don't let your online presence get in the way of playing for your dream school.
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* Originally published on January 17, 2023, by Keirsten Sires
