What is the Recruiting Process?
By Jake Sayers
The recruiting process is the process in which college coaches narrow down prospective athletes they feel would be a good fit at their program. There are 5 steps to the recruiting process Researching Prospects, Reaching out to Prospects, Evaluation of Prospects, Offering Prospects, and Committing.
Step 1: Researching Prospects
All college coaches generally follow the same process with regards to the recruiting process. Coaches start off by finding prospects on sites like Next Level Sports. They are looking for athletes who meet certain height, weight, position, certain graduation classes, etc needs. These list sizes vary depending on the coaches needs and the size of the school.
Step 2: Reaching out to Prospects
After coaches have a general list of prospects they are interested in recruiting they begin to reach out to the athletes. Forms of communication coaches use include phone calls, emails, letters, DM's and by contacting the athletes coaches. Coaches may also ask the athlete to fill out their recruiting questionnaire or attend a team camp. As well as for their film or schedule to watch them play in person. These are all good signs that the coach is interested in recruiting you.
Step 3: Evaluation of Prospects
After having all the information and film they need to completely evaluate the athlete they will review all the information and further narrow down who they want to pursue and recruit for their team.
Step 4: Offering Prospects
Each coach has a different way of offering and when they offer prospects. The number of prospects a coach will offer depends on their open roster spots and the size of the school. However, coaches generally offer the players at the top of their list first and will work their way down the list until they have filled all available roster spots.
Step 5: Committing
After the athlete evaluates all of his or her offers and makes a final decision signing their national letter of intent.