COLLEGE RECRUITING

Build a target list of schools that are looked at not only for athletics, but also meet your academic goals. 

• • It is important to note that this list is not set in stone, it can change throughout your recruiting process. It’s better to cast a wide net and narrow down as you move through the process
• When building a list, it’s important to consider these factors:
  • Program Culture (coaching style, teammates, history, etc)
  • Academics (does it have the major(s) you’re interested in studying)
  • Location 

This list should include:

• Schools in every division
  • List 5-20 schools in each division
• In each division- 
  • Dream Schools: 1-5 schools
    • Should be your dream schools for each division
  • Stretch Schools: 6-12 schools 
    • Schools that would be a stretch, but with continued work in the gym, could be a possibility
  • Rational Schools: 10 schools 
    • Schools you can see yourself attending athletically
  • Back-up Schools: 10 schools 

Questions to Consider: 

• What schools will your GPA and test scores qualify you for? 
• Do you know what you want to major in? If so, does your list of schools have your major?
• Does the school offer scholarships or merits? Do you qualify for them?
• What size school do you want to be at? Does class size or campus size matter?
• How far from home do you want to be?
• Will this school pass the “broken leg” test (aka- if I cannot play a sport, will I enjoy going to school here)?

For more information on what to consider when building a list, check out Sports Recruit’s Blog on Building a List

• If you are considering playing in college, you will need to register at the NCAA eligibility center
  • You can make a free account and upgrade to paid if and when you are being pursued by a D1 school
• You will need to make sure your academics meet NCAA requirements
  • High School graduation/diploma does NOT mean you meet the GPA and course requirements to play in college. It is imperative you check with the eligibility center and work with your school counselor to meet these requirements

Introduce Yourself

Once your target list is set, it is time to send out introductions to the coaches. 

Each letter should address the coach directly (not "To whom it may concern") and show interest in wanting to be a part of their school and the program. Your letter should include the following:

• Athletic Resume 
  • Create a resume with your name, position, graduation year, school, club, height, etc
  • If you need help creating one, please contact Coach Lauren
• A link to your recruiting profile
• Your tournament schedule
• HP's Recruiting Coordinator's information and your coach's information

Cadence of emails: 

• You should be emailing in the fall every 6 weeks with updates. Keep the emails personable, avoid text message lingo, and make sure you comment on anything happening in their program (ie big wins, awards, etc). 
• During club season, send updates before every tournament that include your court info, play time, and other notable updates. 

College Coaches can EVALUATE YOU through HS season, Club season or possibly at Camp

• D1 and D2 cannot talk to you personally BEFORE June 15th of Sophomore year
  • They are able to reach out to your HS coach/Club coach or recruiting coordinator to express interest.
• AFTER June 15th of Sophomore year
  • A coach can directly email you back to let you know if they are interested.
• D3/NAIA/JUCO have more relaxed rules and may be able to contact you whenever

There are two types of visits that can occur during this process:

• Unofficial Visit- Family or athlete pay for the expenses of the visit
• Official Visit- The college CAN pay for the visit. This can include transportation to and from the college, 3 meals per day, as well as lodging for the student-athlete and their parents/guardians.