C.J. Haydock knows how to level up. The head coach of the Fresno Pacific University men's basketball team spent 11 years coaching high school basketball before moving into FPU's staff as a recruiting coordinator and guard coach in 2015 before taking over as head coach in 2016. Here are Coach Haydock's best tips to help you get to the next level yourself.

What is the most important quality you look for in a recruit? 

Someone who is invested in others, celebrates their teammates' success, cares about other sports at their school, and is invested in things that matter in this world.

Related: 3 Effective Ways to Reach out to a Coach During the Recruiting Process

What is the best way for a recruit to get on your radar?

Come to an elite/prospect camp.

When should an athlete contact you, what is the best way? (age, grade, time of year, email, phone, or other)

Junior year, pre and postseason, via email. Include GPA, school, club coach, contact info, and film.

Related: 5 Important Email Tips During the Recruitment Process

What are your expectations for incoming players in the classroom, in the weight room, and on the court?

Show up early, stay late. Have nothing else in your life but chasing the best version of yourself.

What are the main do's and don'ts for a recruit's highlight tape?

Don't [give me] fluff. Give a good glimpse into full speed, game clips (not workouts or practice).

Related: Want to Wow Recruiters? Top 5 Platforms to Help You Create the Best Highlight Reel

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?

[Consider] JUCO.

How big a factor is social media when recruiting players? What advice do you have for athletes regarding social media?

Be smart–I'm checking it.

Image Credit: Twitter

* Originally published on November 10, 2022, by 2aDays Staff