Recruiting 101: What You Need to Know
/Did you know players can become a D1 softball prospect in 7th or 8th grade? I’m not trying to add any pressure, but I want you to understand this process as early as possible. You’re thinking, “We’re just playing to have fun and improve. We can figure it all out when she shows more commitment.” While I understand that sentiment, I can’t tell you how many players get very interested in playing at a higher level, then tell me they wish they would have known certain things early on. I’d suggest simply reading this so you are prepared.
Coach Sarah recently attended a seminar on college softball recruiting put on by the NFCA (National Fastpitch Coaches Association), open to the general public. I’ve highlighted (bolded) resources for you to continue to do research throughout this blog, as well as included the most interesting facts in the presentation that stood out to me from her notes.
Where do I start? A lot of parents ask me that, so I found the answer. Right here! Read on and you’ll know where to go depending upon your daughter’s goals. Here are both the unexpected and important things that stood out to me, as well as links to more resources.
The presenters kept repeating the following: At every age leading up to college, coaches suggest getting a realistic assessment of your skills. Everyone wants to know, do I have what it takes? Go to college games to observe the level of play. Ask instructors and coaches what you realistically need to improve on. It’s not just about speed, but accuracy, movement, change of speed and poise. Play teams from out of your town or region to see what’s out there.
College Bound Guide for the Student Athlete (from the NCAA)
What is the recruiting process like - Coach Sarah’s notes from the NFCA presentation.
Another thing that stood out to me is the money-talk. First, you don’t have to go broke trying to get a scholarship to college. Find a travel team that fits your budget and then follow the rest of their suggestions.
Also, they suggested asking direct questions about how much the college costs and how many scholarships they give out. Then, be honest with yourself about how much money your family can afford to spend on college. How do the two match up? Look at colleges that match your needs. Too many people bury their head in the sand on how much they can actually afford, how many loans they are willing to take out, and their realistic chances for earning a scholarship.
Exposure tournaments are an easy way for multiple coaches to see you perform. They like them too because they can see multiple players in one weekend. Coaches not only watch you play, they ask umpires their opinions, watch if you carry your own bag, and how you cope in pressure situations. It’s another way to learn about you besides watching your recruiting video.
The more you know about the process, the more pressure it takes off of you. Join us for our offseason pitching school program starting in October to continue to improve your skills to play better for college, high school, travel and your house team.
