Ian Shoemaker is the offensive coordinator at the University of Hawaii, and he's used to being in charge. Prior to his time at Hawaii, Shoemaker spent time as head coach of the Central Washington Wildcat football team where he compiled a 38-16 record and won Great Northwest Athletic Conference championships in 2017 and 2018. He's also helped the Eastern Washington University Eagles lead the nation in offense in 2019, then coached the runner-up for the Walter Payton Award, quarterback Eric Barriere, who earned five first team All-America honors in 2020-21. Here are his best tips for tackling your recruiting process.
What is the most important quality you look for in a recruit?
Drive. We want student-athletes that want to improve themselves both on the field and in the classroom.
What is the best way for a recruit to get on your radar?
Get a great recommendation from your high school coach.
When should an athlete contact you, what is the best way?
The month of May prior to your junior year is best. This is when we reach out to high school coaches in our recruiting area.
Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits
What are your expectations for incoming players in the classroom, in the weight room, and on the field?
Be present and engage, 100% attendance to classes, eight hours a week in the weightroom, and 4-6 hours in study tables.
What are the do's and don'ts of being recruited?
Do: Fill out our NCAA clearinghouse and FASFA ahead of time.
Don't: Engage in negative social media posts.
Related: If You See These 5 Recruiting Visit Red Flags… Run and Don't Turn Back!
What is the best advice you can offer a recruit?
Put your best effort forward at your high school. Build great relationships with high school coaches, teachers, and counselors.
What really jumps out to you when reviewing a recruit's highlight tape?
Speed and effort.
What are the main do's and don'ts for a recruit's highlight tape?
Do: Highlight yourself (prior to the snap of the ball).
Don't: Worry about music and transitions.
Related: 5 Must-Do's For Your Football Highlight Tape (Plus 3 Things to Avoid)
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 possible and update your film as often as possible.
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?
There are other options out there where you can get a great education and athletic experience. Division 1 and full-rides are not the only place to have an amazing college experience.
How big a factor is social media when recruiting players? What advice do you have for athletes regarding social media?
Social media is a great place to connect with college coaches. Be careful with what you post-it is a daily advertisement for who you are as a person.
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* Originally published on October 19, 2022, by 2aDays Staff
