Shawn Pistor is the head rowing coach at Rollins College, where he has a lot of experience coaching and recruiting athletes. This interview gives recruits a good idea of some things they can do to ensure their recruiting process runs smoothly and that they feel confident transitioning to the next level. Here's what athletes of all sports can learn from Coach Pistor.
- What is the best part of being a coach at Rollins?
Working with the athletes. Most of our athletes in the past had no experience in crew before they joined our team. Teaching someone a sport from scratch and getting them up to speed to compete at the collegiate level quickly is extremely rewarding.
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- What are you looking for in athletes during the recruiting process?
Height, someone willing to make changes and accept criticism, someone who is a good communicator and someone willing to continually work hard and who I can trust.
- What advice would you give to athletes in the recruiting process?
Reach out and don't wait for the coaches to contact you. You, the athlete, should do all of the connecting. If a parent does most of the work then I know they have no interest in our school or team. Don't string a coach along–if you want to be at that school then let them know.
- How do you choose the athletes you recruit?
Their willingness to be on the team and how well they communicate with me. Height and some video on the rowing machine or in a boat so I can see if there is potential.
- What advice would you give to someone that wants to be in a sports team in college?
Speak to the coach and make sure you know what you are getting. Know what you are getting into becoming part of a varsity sport. Many people who can't handle our team truly want a club team and not a varsity team. Be honest with yourself on exactly how much time and energy you want to put into the sport.
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- What makes someone a valuable member of the team besides their rowing skills?
Ability to push, ability to accept criticism and coaching and ability to make changes asked from them. For the athlete to know they are not the best and be honest with their individual skills and abilities.
- What are some questions that you consider athletes should ask you during the recruiting process?
1.) Is there a spot and a possibility of me actually competing on your team and will I not even make the practice squad. 2.) Are the athletes close? 3.) How does your team handle conflicts and discipline? 4.) How do you, as the coach, handle conflicts and discipline?
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* Originally published on August 29, 2022, by Camila Cramer
