Come back every Monday for Coaching Staff's Advice on the college recruiting process, what they look for in athletes, and what to expect as a college athlete.
John Troxell has been busy building a program at Lafayette College since day one of his debut 2022 season, which is great news for recruits like you! Coaches who are tasked with building programs are always looking for fresh talent in recruiting and Coach Troxell is no rookie here–he spent 16 years coaching at Franklin & Marshall before switching gears. Read on to see how you could fit into a program like his.
What is the most important quality you look for in a recruit?
Academics first, character, and the ability to run and bend.
What is the best way for a recruit to get on your radar?
Email me directly.
When should an athlete contact you, what is the best way?
Spring of junior year and email is best.
Related: Want to Wow Recruiters? Remember these 7 Components of an Effective Email to a Coach
What are your expectations for incoming players in the classroom, in the weight room, and on the field?
Incoming players need to get off to a good start in the classroom and gain size and strength. We don't expect freshmen to come in and help us on the field right away.
Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits
What is the best advice you can offer a recruit?
Be aggressive in the process. Find out where you stand with the colleges you have interest in.
Social media never got me to recruit a kid but it has made me drop a recruit. Be careful.
-John Troxell
What really jumps out to you when reviewing a recruit's highlight tape?
How a player reacts to the success he is having. Is he excitable or is he a show-boater?
Related: 5 Must-Do's For Your Football Highlight Tape (Plus 3 Things to Avoid)
What are the main do's and don'ts for a recruit's highlight tape?
Do: Include contact information.
Don't: Play music that is distasteful.
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?
Share highlights after your junior year. After the season is fine.
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?
Have a wide range of schools that you research and don't turn people away. You create your own luck and being aggressive in the process will give you options in the end.
How big a factor is social media when recruiting players? What advice do you have for athletes regarding social media?
Social media never got me to recruit a kid but it has made me drop a recruit. Be careful.
Have a story idea or know an awesome athlete/coach we should interview? Email us at [email protected]
Image Credit: Lafayette News
* Originally published on December 19, 2022, by 2aDays Staff
