If you asked a high school player if getting recruited was important, they’d quickly say yes. That’s not surprising. But, what may be surprising is that if you asked the same players what it takes to get recruited, they’d most likely give you the wrong answer. That’s because most players (and parents) think getting recruited is all about athletic skill and being able to throw 90mph. If you can just elevate your game to a high enough level, your mailbox will be full of letters and advisors will be begging to meet with you. Right?
Wrong.
The truth is recruiting coordinators see some of the most talented players across the country when watching a game and never even write their name down. They are so accustom to seeing talent, they look for something more. Something that will compel them to invest in a player, not just be interested in them. I’m talking about a player’s intangibles. The things you can’t teach.
Here are 5 ways to stand out and get noticed by recruiting coordinators. (Please note: none of these require you to throw 90mph.)
1. You take your pre-game work seriously. Recruiting coordinators tend to arrive early to games in order to see how players prepare. They know that quality players commit to their pre-game routine just as much as their performance during the game. If they see you goofing off instead of getting ready, chances are they’ll just head to someone else’s game.
2. You hustle everywhere you go. Recruiting coordinators love effort. They want to see you sprint on the field, sprint off the field and hustle no matter where you are headed. Hustle is a form of toughness and recruiting coordinators love tough players. Always sprint through your spot, not just to it.
3. You communicate, rather than complain. Recruiting coordinators are keen listeners. They look for clues on your personality by listening into your conversations with your teammates, coaches, and parents. Players that are positive in their communication stand out. Players that are negative and just complain, get scratched out.
4. You stretch yourself during competition. Recruiting coordinators love players that are willing to take risks. Do you push yourself to stretch a single into a double? Are you willing to pitch inside? Games aren’t won by playing it safe. Players that take risks and stretch themselves get noticed.
5. You look your coaches in the eye when their talking to you. Your ability to take feedback in the heat of the moment will help you stand out. Nothing turns a recruiting coordinator off more than if a player tosses a ball to the coach when getting taken out of a game. That is except for players that pout, whine, and make excuses. That turns them off more. Look to learn from your coach’s feedback and recruiters will look for you.
When it comes to getting recruited, talent isn’t enough. By focusing on these five things and you’ll begin to separate yourself from the pack.
