Getting started with college recruiting

I'm interested in college sports and want to get recruited. How should I start the recruiting process? Do I need to reach out to coaches, or is it more about showcasing my stats?

In embarking on the college sports recruitment process, there are several crucial steps to be mindful of. It's a combination of showcasing your proper stats and reaching out to coaches, which will demonstrate in-depth interest and proactive behavior. Let's break it down:

1. Self-Evaluation: The first step is figuring out where you stand in terms of athletic ability and academic prowess. It will help you identify the colleges that could be a good fit for you.

2. Create an Athlete Resume: Much like a professional resume, the athlete's resume should include your contact information, academic achievements, athletic statistics, personal statement, and a list of references. It acts as an easy-to-digest summary of your skills and accomplishments.

3. Highlight Video: Often critical in the recruiting process, a solid highlight video can capture a coach's attention. Make sure it is well-edited and not overly long but showcases your skills effectively. You can upload it to a website or YouTube channel for easy sharing.

4. Reach Out to Coaches: Establishing communication with coaches proactively shows initiative and interest. Make sure your emails are personalized and demonstrate familiarity with the respective program and college. Try to update them regularly with your statistics, game schedule, and any recent accomplishments.

5. Attend Recruitment Camps: These events are an excellent opportunity for athletes to perform in front of college coaches. It's a two-way street: you can find out if you’re a good fit for the school, and coaches can gauge if you’re a good fit for their teams.

6. Keep Up your Grades: Never underestimate the importance of academics in this process. Your GPA, course rigor, and test scores (if required by the school) are all examined thoroughly by college coaches and admissions officers.

Every college has its own recruiting process, so do your research and ensure you're meeting any specific requirements from each school you're interested in. Good luck! Remember, it's not just about getting recruited but also about finding the school and team that are the right fit for you as an athlete and as a student.