While embarking on the college recruiting process, it may be comforting to know that all the responsibilities do not rest exclusively on the athlete. The coaches, too, take on certain aspects of the recruiting process.
The athlete may reach out to various coaches and schools that they are interested in, and are certainly encouraged to do so, but one of the coach's responsibilities is to research and make contact with the athlete as well. After looking at tapes, statistics, and other information, the coach may reach out to an athlete that he or she is interested in. Whether by phone or email, it is one of the coach's duties to find and make contact with athletes.
Another responsibility of the coach during the recruiting process is to provide the athlete with all the information about the institution and athletic program in order for the athlete to make an informed decision. It is the coach's responsibility to discuss training schemes and schedules, the team dynamic, attributes of the school, and even academic expectations. The coach can also tell the athlete how he or she fits into the program. Many athletes like to know where they will fall on the roster when competition time comes, perhaps as a starter, or one of the top athletes, and it is the coach's job to be honest with the athlete as to their position on the team.
Finally, the main responsibility of the coach through the duration of the recruiting process is to sell their program and school. They highlight all the best aspects of the team and the university to make it as appealing to the athlete as possible.
Though many athletes feel overwhelmed during the recruiting process, it may be a relief to realize the coach embraces certain responsibilities too. The coach will essentially be the athlete's first friend and first resource at the school, so it is smart to use that connection and source to the athlete's benefit. With coaches' help, athletes can make the decision that is best for them.
* Originally published on February 16, 2017, by Meghan Malloy
