Sara Schoenhoft was the head softball coach at Oberlin College for seven years. In her time at Oberlin, Coach Schoenhoft second-best record in program history, recorded 40 wins within four years, and dramatically increased the competitive nature of the whole program. In 2023, she took on a new role at Oberlin College as the Associate Director of Campus Recreation. Coach Schoenhoft offered us some recruiting advice that she had picked up on from her many years of coaching.
What is the most important quality you look for in a recruit?
Overall athleticism and good mechanics.
What is the best way for a recruit to get on your radar?
Send me a skills video and test scores.
When should an athlete contact you, what is the best way? (age, grade, time of year, email, phone, or other)
Email is the best initial contact. I like to start getting Juniors on my radar in the fall of their Junior year and then stay in touch once they take their ACT's/SAT's and see them play over the summer or that fall.
What are your expectations for incoming players in the classroom, in the weight room, and on the field?
Giving me your best in all that you do, commitment, work ethic, and respect for yourself and your teammates.
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What are the do's and don'ts of being recruited?
Do: make sure every email is marked with class year, name, and position. When sending your schedules be sure to include team name and jersey number. Do stay in contact regularly and give us updates on anything new and exciting. Do respond to me in a timely manner! Don't text me late at night or on weekends.
What is the best recruiting advice you can offer?
Find a school that is the best fit for you overall.
Related: 11 Recruiting Questions With Haverford College Head Softball Coach Kate Gatti
What really jumps out to you when reviewing a recruit's highlight tape?
Mechanics and how well you move on the field.
What are the main do's and don'ts for a recruit's highlight tape?
Keep it short and sweet. 3 minutes max. Make sure it's zoomed in enough so that I don't have to squint to see you!
When do you recommend recruits put together and share their highlight reels? Is it best to make their highlight reel during offseason, in the middle of season, or after each game?
During the offseason, with some in game highlights added as they happen.
Related: Grand Slam Tips: Softball Recruiting Advice For Parents From Parents
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?
Don't give up, keep working, either adjust your expectations with what level you want to play at (d1 vs. d2 vs. d3). Keep reaching out to coaches because there are a lot of great schools out there!
How big a factor is social media when recruiting players? What advice do you have for athletes regarding social media?
Keep your social media clean and private. If I can look up your social media accounts and I see you engaging in unlawful or troublesome behavior, I am not going to recruit you.
Have a story idea or know an awesome athlete/coach we should interview? Email us at [email protected]
* Originally published on June 12, 2023, by Tara Sires
