Connecting with college coaches is one of the most important steps in the recruiting process—and one of the most misunderstood. Many student-athletes assume coaches will simply “find” them. In reality, recruiting is a proactive process that rewards preparation, communication, and persistence.
To increase your chances of building meaningful connections with college coaches, focus on the following five proven strategies.
1. Research Potential Schools
Before reaching out to any coach, take the time to research schools that align with both your athletic and academic goals. Look beyond the name on the jersey. Consider the level of competition, the coaching staff and their recruiting history, training facilities, and the quality of academic programs that support your long-term career plans. Targeting the right schools from the start leads to stronger conversations and better recruiting outcomes.
2. Reach Out to Coaches
Don’t wait for a coach to contact you—initiate the conversation. Email, social media, text messages, and phone calls are all tools athletes can use to express interest. Effective communication should highlight not only your athletic ability but also your desire to earn a college education and contribute to the program. Personalized, respectful outreach shows maturity and genuine interest, which coaches value.
3. Link Your Recruit Profile
Your recruiting profile acts as your sports resume. A PrepStar recruit profile provides college coaches with a clear snapshot of who you are as an athlete and student, including statistics, academic information, achievements, and personal details. Always include your profile link when contacting coaches. You can find your link by clicking the Settings button on the Scoreboard homepage, making it easy to share with every coach you contact.
4. Stay Active on Social Media
Social media matters in recruiting. College coaches regularly review a recruit’s online presence to learn more about their character, habits, and behavior. Stay active, positive, and professional. Share training updates, game highlights, and academic achievements while avoiding posts that could raise red flags. Think of social media as an extension of your recruiting profile.
5. Be Persistent and Patient
Recruiting is rarely an overnight process. Coaches manage hundreds of prospects and tight recruiting calendars, so responses may not come immediately. Stay patient, follow up appropriately, and continue developing your skills both on and off the field. Consistent effort, strong communication, and steady improvement often separate recruited athletes from those who get overlooked.
Final Thoughts
Connecting with college coaches requires a plan, consistent action, and the right tools. By researching schools, reaching out confidently, sharing your PrepStar recruit profile, managing your social media presence, and staying persistent, you put yourself in control of your recruiting journey.
Preparation creates opportunity—and opportunity leads to results.
Elite Athletes Recruiting 