When you are in the middle of the recruiting process it is important to understand that coaches will judge you by every move you make. That's why you can have all the skill in the world, but still go unnoticed by college coaches–there is more to an athlete than just their on the field performance. When it comes to college recruiting, here are some behaviors that might make you a recruiting red flag.

Red Flag #1: You Don't Do the Little Things

To put it simply, many coaches are not interested in athletes that don't do the little things, like hustling at practice and in games. Furthermore, coaches see red flags in athletes who struggle in their interpersonal relationships, meaning, treating friends, parents, and teammates in a disrespectful manner. Coaches want athletes who are selfless, not selfish, and they want athletes that have their priorities straight. So make sure you're acting like a holistic athlete and taking care of small things that may seem consequential, but still matter.

Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits

Red Flag #2: Your Heart Isn't in it

Other red flags include athletes who are playing because their parents make them, they don't love the sport, or their parents are overbearing. In fact, a few years ago, a Big Ten Football Coach said that he evaluated parents alongside scouted athletes, and if they didn't fit the fold or were overbearing, he would move on. Sometimes talent isn't enough.

Related: Citadel Coach Lori Bonacci's Top Five Recruiting Tips

Red Flag #3: Your Social Media is a Mess

Today, social media has become intertwined in society, and social media can be a great resource for recruits. However, harmful and reckless social media content is an immediate red flag to coaches, and can  result in repercussions for an athlete. So making sure you monitor your content is a must. 

Being recruited is definitely a stressful time. While it can be extremely exciting, it is important to keep these red flags in the back of your mind, as every coach will be scouting you for more than just your talent. 

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* Originally published on November 15, 2022, by Nicholas Nathanson