Coach Bobby Blanken just wrapped up his sixth season as the head women's volleyball coach at Colorado Christian University and he's gotten a lot done in that time. In his first five seasons, he coached eight all-conference athletes and qualified for the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Tournament four times. Needless to say, Coach Blanken is looking for winners. Here's how you can stand out on his radar.
What is the most important quality you look for in a recruit?
Character, Talent, Skill.
What is the best way for a recruit to get on your radar?
To be seen in person, and have a positively memorable performance is the best way to get noticed.
When should an athlete contact you, what is the best way?
The athlete should contact us when they believe we (the university) are an ideal fit for them. This could be at any age. Preferred contact means would be email, camp attendance, and phone call.
What are your expectations for incoming players in the classroom, in the weight room, and on the court?
Expected GPA for student-athletes is at or above a 3.4 cumulative GPA. Weight room expectations are too many to list here but improvement is the operative word. Incoming players need to contribute on and off the court. Again, the operative word is improvement.
What are the do's and don'ts of being recruited?
Do pursue your dream until the door is closed. Get a “yes” or “no” from the recruiting staff.
DON'T assume any answers in the recruiting process. If it's important, ask until you have clarity.
What is the best advice you can offer a recruit?
Get a realistic evaluation of your own talent and skill level. This will help you to find the right school.
Related: 4 Tips to Help You to Make the Most of Volleyball Offseason
What really jumps out to you when reviewing a recruit's highlight tape?
Athleticism, energy, and IQ.
What are the main do's and don'ts for a recruit's highlight tape?
Put the good stuff in the beginning. Draw us in with you at your best and then we are more likely to watch the “fluff.”
Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits
When do you recommend recruits put together and share their highlight reels? Is it best to make their highlight reel during the offseason, in the middle of season, or after each game?
As soon as you've got enough material for a reel, put it together. The more you give, the more we get to see you at your best.
What advice do you have for recruits who get turned down by their dream schools? What are their options if they don't gain the recruiting attention they desire?
Ask yourself if your expectation was realistic. Often doors that were once closed reopen. I've seen it happen too many times on my end [where athletes] give up and move on. Visit as many schools that meet your non-negotiable expectations. This will give you a more broad view of your potential college experience and will give you a backup plan if/when your “Plan A” doesn't work out.
How big a factor is social media when recruiting players? What advice do you have for athletes regarding social media?
Be careful what you post. I've stopped recruiting a player because of content on their twitter account.
Have a story idea or know an awesome athlete/coach we should interview? Email us at [email protected]
Image Credit: Colorado Christian Athletics
* Originally published on March 27, 2023, by 2aDays Staff
