How to Recruit College Bound Student-Athletes

Determine what the specific entrance requirements are for your college or university. Know the NCAA requirements for "qualifiers." (www.ncaa.org)

Use the internet as your first weapon. Find high schools and their specific information for your area. You want the names of coaches, team rosters, etc. These things are all listed on the high school websites. Also go to the college coaches recruiting site: www.nsr-inc.com and look for athletes in your sport. You can sort by region of the country, GPA, position players and more. These athletes pay to be posted here, so you know they are interested in college athletics and interested in hearing from you.

Start contacting coaches and student-athletes. Many student-athletes do not get any contacts from college coaches. Be the first to contact them and it creates a special bond between the two of you. It is a form of flattery and pride for the athlete, their parents, their coach and their school to have a college coach interested in them. Letters are a great way to initiate contact. Follow up with a call or a visit to see a game. Have your admissions department send them a welcome packet.

Regular contact in a variety of forms from you and your university keeps you "in the running." Student-athletes become overwhelmed with the decisions that they need to make regarding college. You want to become the "easy" choice that feels good for them to make. Never underestimate how the smallest detail can sway an athlete to choose your school. Keep notes and refer to them when you meet and talk - "Last time we talked, you were getting ready for Homecoming, how did that go?" Showing interest in their life makes ALL the difference.

Be genuine - students recognize and appreciate authenticity.
Be direct - "we'd really love to have you play for us!"
Be ready - student-athletes will respond to your interest in them and choose your institution as their new "home."