In 2015, Rachel Smith, was named the first-ever head coach of the women's lacrosse team at DeSales University and earned her first-ever postseason spot in 2019. Before pioneering the DeSales Women's Lacrosse program, Smith spent two seasons as a graduate assistant coach at Stevenson University where she coached two First-Team All-Region players, two Second-Team All-Region players, seven All-MAC Commonwealth players, a MAC Commonwealth Player of the Year, and two Academic All-MAC Commonwealth players. She also won a MAC Commonwealth Championship in 2014 as a graduate assistant coach. Here are Smith's top ten tips for recruits looking to make it to the next level.
Q: What is the most important quality you look for in a recruit?
A: Fit into our program–athletically, academically, and socially.
Q: When should an athlete contact you, what is the best way?
A: As soon as they know what they want to study in college.
Q: What are your expectations for incoming players in the classroom, in the weight room, and on the field?
A: Try their best 100% of the time and communicate with us effectively.
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Q: What are the do's and don'ts of being recruited?
A: Do: Be honest.
Don't: Close doors.
Q: What is the best advice you can offer a recruit?
A: Take your time deciding where you want to attend college. Do not let scholarships sway you if you are unsure of the school.
Q: What really jumps out to you when reviewing a recruit's highlight tape?
A: Effort!
Q: What are the main do's and don'ts for a recruit's highlight tape?
A: Do include the good and bad. We like to see how you respond to mistakes and adversity. Do not film it from 200 yards away!
Q: When do you recommend recruits put together and share their highlight reels?
A: Whenever they have the time!
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Q: 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?
A: Create a new dream! It is hard to hear no, but there is somewhere else that really wants you to be on their team and attend their college. It usually works to be a better fit for everyone. Reach out to schools if you do not get the attention you desire. It is hard to know a recruit is interested if they do not reach out.
Q: How big a factor is social media when recruiting players? What advice do you have for athletes regarding social media?
A: It influences our decision for sure. It is a way to gain insight into the recruit and their lifestyle. They should use social media as a way to display the best version of them!
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* Originally published on October 27, 2022, by 2aDays Staff
