My name is Ali, I am an intern at MyVolleyBox! When I reflect on my journey as a college athlete, especially through the lens of recruiting, I realize how much I could have done differently. If I could go back in time, I'd have taken a more proactive approach to my recruitment process, particularly in the earlier years of high school. I want to share a few tips and lessons learned from my experience—tips that could help current high school athletes looking to play college sports and avoid some of the common mistakes I made, and set themselves up for success.
1. Start Early
Recruiting starts much earlier than most athletes (and parents) realize. I wish I had known in my freshman or sophomore year how important it is to start building relationships with college coaches. You don’t have to be a star at that point, but showing that you're serious about the sport and dedicated to your improvement can make a huge difference down the line. Take time to develop as an athlete and as a person. Focus on improving your skills and taking care of your academics, because both are equally important to coaches.
2. Be Proactive
Make a list of potential schools and programs that fit your athletic and academic goals, and don’t rush into decisions. Starting early allows you to build relationships with coaches, but you also need to keep a healthy perspective on what will be best for you in the long term. Coaches are busy, and they may not always have time to reach out to every potential recruit. Be proactive by emailing coaches, attending their camps, and reaching out if you think you’re a good fit for their program. A simple, well-written email with highlights and a brief introduction about why you’re interested in their program goes a long way.When you’re putting together your recruiting materials—whether it’s a highlight reel, resume, or email—make sure you're highlighting the right things. Coaches want to know how you stand out on the court, but they also want to know who you are off the court. A highlight reel is important, but make sure it shows not just your best plays, but your versatility, work ethic, and how you fit into the team dynamic.
3. Find the Right Fit, Not Just the Biggest Name
Coaches are not just looking for stars; they’re looking for players who will elevate the team, both in terms of talent and character. It’s tempting to chase after the biggest name schools, the ones you see on TV or that have a winning reputation. But one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that the right fit is more important than the biggest name. The right fit is about finding a program where you can thrive both as an athlete and as a person. Do your research on team culture, coaching styles, facilities, and what the school offers outside of athletics. Visit schools, meet the coaches, and talk to current players to get a real sense of what life will be like. I truly believe there is a perfect spot for everyone to play in college. It’s important to not let the name or division of a school affect your best interests.
4. Don’t Let Setbacks Define You
Recruiting doesn’t always go as planned. Maybe a coach tells you they’re no longer interested, or perhaps you’re overlooked at a showcase. I’ve been there. It’s hard not to take it personally, but setbacks are part of the journey. Every “no” gets you closer to a “yes.” Keep training, keep improving, and stay resilient. Coaches want players who are mentally tough and who can handle adversity. Also, remember that recruiting is a two-way street. While it’s easy to focus on impressing coaches, remember that you should also be looking for a program where you’ll be happy,
supported, and challenged. If one door closes, another might open where you’ll be a better fit.
5. Use Your Network
It’s not just about what you know; it’s also about who you know. Your high school coach, club team coach, trainers, or mentors can be a great resource when it comes to recruiting. They know the ropes and can help guide you through the process. More importantly, they can advocate for you with coaches, especially if they have established relationships with them. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or introductions to college coaches. Many coaches will take a recommendation from someone they trust.
The recruiting process can be a mix of excitement, anxiety, and uncertainty, but
looking back, I realize that it’s about finding the path that’s right for you. There’s no
one-size-fits-all approach, but by staying focused, humble, and proactive, you can
put yourself in the best possible position to find a program where you can succeed
and grow. Remember: it’s not just about the destination—it’s about enjoying the
process and taking the lessons you learn with you along the way. Stay committed, stay true to yourself, and embrace the journey ahead.
- Alison Goldberg UNC Asheville