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Starting the Clock: Navigating College Recruiting After June 15

Chris Stack • Jun 06, 2024

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."

- Lao Tzu

June 15 is more than just another date on the calendar for aspiring student-athletes. It marks a significant milestone in the college recruiting process, particularly for those eyeing opportunities in Division I and Division II schools. This day, known as the first contact date, is when college coaches are officially allowed to initiate direct communication with recruits. However, it's crucial to understand that June 15 is just the beginning of a long and dynamic journey. It’s the starting line, not the finish line.


What Does June 15 Mean?

For many student-athletes (NOT ALL SPORTS) June 15 is a day filled with anticipation. (Check the rules for your sport) After this date, college coaches can start reaching out via phone calls, emails, and social media to express their interest. It’s a moment many athletes dream of—finally hearing directly from the coaches they've admired and hoped to impress. But it’s important to recognize that this is merely the start of a process that will unfold over the coming months and years.


The Clock Has Started

Think of June 15 as the moment the stopwatch starts ticking on your recruiting journey. It’s not a sprint but a marathon. Here are key steps to take as you embark on this path:


1. Stay Calm and Organized

The first contact can be exciting and overwhelming. Stay calm, keep track of communications, and create a system to organize your interactions with various coaches. This could be a simple spreadsheet or a dedicated app that allows you to note dates, names, and details of each interaction.


2. Research and Prepare

Use this time to research the programs that reach out to you. Understand their academic and athletic offerings, team culture, and how you might fit into their program. Preparation is key to making informed decisions. Delve into each school's strengths, the success of their athletic programs, and the academic support they offer athletes.


3. Showcase Your Skills

Continue to work hard both academically and athletically. Keep updating your highlight reels and maintain strong grades. Coaches are looking for well-rounded individuals who excel both on and off the field. Regularly update your profiles on recruiting platforms and make sure your social media reflects your commitment and passion for the sport.


4. Engage Actively

Respond to coaches promptly and thoughtfully. Ask questions that matter to you, such as inquiries about scholarship opportunities, the team’s training regimen, and academic support for athletes. Show genuine interest in their program and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their team’s success.


5. Visit Campuses

If possible, schedule unofficial visits to campuses. Seeing the facilities, meeting current team members, and getting a feel for the campus atmosphere can be incredibly valuable in making your decision. These visits will give you a firsthand look at where you might spend the next few years of your life.


It’s Your Journey

The most important thing to remember is that the recruiting process is unique for every student-athlete. It’s essential to stay true to yourself and your goals. Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:


  1. Set Personal Goals

Define what you want from your college experience. Whether it’s a specific academic program, a location, or a team dynamic, knowing your priorities will help guide your decisions. Consider factors like campus size, distance from home, and the overall college experience you’re seeking.


2. Be Patient

Recruiting can be a lengthy process. Offers may not come immediately, and that’s okay. Stay focused on your goals, and trust that the right opportunity will come. Keep improving your skills and remain proactive in your communication with coaches.


3. Communicate Clearly

Keep your parents, coaches, and advisors in the loop. Their support and guidance can be invaluable as you navigate the recruiting landscape. Regularly update them on your progress and seek their advice when needed.


4. Enjoy the Process

While it can be stressful, this is also an exciting time. Embrace the journey, celebrate your achievements, and look forward to the opportunities ahead. Remember to enjoy your high school experience and make memories with your teammates and friends.


Beyond June 15

Remember, June 15 is just the beginning. The recruiting process will evolve, with different timelines and milestones for everyone. The key is to remain proactive and engaged. The clock started ticking on June 15, but it’s up to you how you manage your time and efforts moving forward.


  1. Building Relationships

Building strong relationships with coaches is crucial. They want to know you as a person, not just as an athlete. Here are some tips for fostering these connections:


2. Be Genuine

Authenticity is key. Coaches can tell when a recruit is genuinely interested in their program. Be yourself and let your passion for the sport shine through in your communications.


3. Show Appreciation

A simple thank you goes a long way. Whether it’s after a visit, a phone call, or receiving an offer, expressing gratitude can leave a lasting positive impression.


4. Keep Coaches Updated

Regularly update coaches on your progress. Whether it’s a new personal best, an academic achievement, or an upcoming tournament, keeping them in the loop shows your dedication and continued interest.


Leveraging Technology

In today’s digital age, technology plays a significant role in the recruiting process. Here’s how you can leverage it to your advantage:


  1. Social Media

Use social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn to showcase your athletic achievements and academic successes. Follow and engage with college programs, share your highlight reels, and maintain a positive online presence.


2. Recruiting Platforms

Join recruiting platforms like College Fit Finder, Productive Recruit, Hudl, or BeRecruited to create a comprehensive profile. These platforms allow coaches to find you and provide a centralized location for your athletic and academic information.


3. Video Highlights

Create and update your highlight reels regularly. Make sure they are easily accessible to coaches, either through your recruiting profile or by sharing links in your communications.


The Role of Academics

Never underestimate the importance of academics in the recruiting process. College coaches are looking for athletes who are committed to their education and capable of balancing both academic and athletic demands.


  1. Stay Focused on School

Maintain strong grades and strive for excellence in your studies. A high GPA can open doors to additional scholarship opportunities and make you a more attractive recruit.


2. Test Scores

Prepare for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Good test scores can bolster your academic profile and increase your chances of admission to competitive programs.


3. Time Management

Develop strong time management skills. Balancing academics and athletics in college will be challenging, and demonstrating your ability to handle these demands now will impress coaches.


Embracing the Journey

The recruiting process is a journey of growth and self-discovery. It’s an opportunity to learn more about yourself, your goals, and what you want from your college experience. Embrace the challenges and celebrate your progress.


Final Thoughts

June 15 is a significant date, but it’s just one step in a much larger journey. Stay focused, be prepared, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Your hard work and dedication have brought you to this point, and now it's time to seize the opportunities that lie ahead. The clock is ticking, but you control the pace. Embrace the journey, and let your passion and perseverance guide you to success.


Whether you receive multiple offers right away or continue to build relationships with coaches over time, remember that your journey is unique. Stay committed, stay positive, and let your love for the sport and your academic aspirations lead the way. The road ahead is full of possibilities, and it all starts now.

Starting the Clock: Navigating College Recruiting After June 15

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The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." - Lao Tzu

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Bring Recruiting Back to the Future

24 Feb, 2021
Wouldn't it be great if we could jump into our Delorean and go back in time to when the college decision was made by seniors. Believe it or not, 20 years ago High School senior student-athletes used to make their college decision. And then over time, it was juniors, sophomores, freshmen, and even some 8th graders who were verbally committing to a college. Crazy right? And then a few years ago, a couple sport specific coaching groups pleaded to the NCAA to try and slow it down by tightening restrictions on college coaches and their programs. And they complied, working together they adopted rules that would restrict any contact, incoming and or outgoing between prospective student-athletes and coaches prior to junior year, which in essence would prevent early commitments. But today, we are in a different world due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many states have shut down youth sports, college seasons were cancelled, college programs cut, and recruiting as we know it came to a screeching halt. And for the classes of 2021 and 2022 that was a devastating blow. These student-athletes have had limited opportunities to be evaluated, visit college campuses, and have face to face interactions with college coaches. The 3 most important things to do in order to be recruited. There are actually high school seniors who have committed to schools without ever meeting their coach in person, only over a screen via face times and zoom meetings. But the hit that these two classes are taking might bring the recruiting cycle back to how it should be, when a senior, typically a 17 or 18 year old student will be making the biggest decision of their young adult life, rather than a 15-16 year old. I believe those two years make a world of difference. The responsibility a senior carries is much more than that of a sophomore. They might have a job and have their license. It only makes sense that a 17 or 18 year old is more equipped to make a decision about college than a 15 or 16 year old. In no way I am saying that the pandemic arriving and shutting down recruiting is a good thing for anyone but it just might relieve the pressure of the current 2023, 2024, and 2025’s who have aspirations of playing their sport at the next level. I am a proponent that high school freshmen should not have to start worrying about college and what they want to study, etc. They are just beginning to make the transition of adolescence to young adulthood. They should have some time for that adjustment. This is a time to enjoy getting to this part of their life, making new friends and experiencing new things and ideas. There will be many life lessons along the way that will prepare them for making this big decision in a couple of years. But not now! In their first couple years of high school they will begin to be molded into the person they are to become. They will begin to discover their interests academically, athletically, and socially. The kids don’t need the added pressure of thinking about college before they barely get their feet wet in high school. With all of that said, I am for student-athletes to be educated about the recruiting process before they jump right in. There are so many factors and aspects to consider. It is important to understand the intricacies of academic eligibility, the recruiting rules, what coaches are looking for, how to market yourself, and then how to stand out from the crowd. And these are things that can be taught and learned prior to starting the process. From a college perspective, being able to primarily focus on Juniors and Seniors might relieve some of the added stress and pressures a coach might face in the world of recruiting. The recruiting cycle is never ending for a college coach and his/her staff. They are inundated with hundreds, if not thousands of emails and videos to watch of potential prospects across a variety of recruiting classes. I can only imagine how relieved a coach might be if they didn’t have to focus on identifying freshmen and sophomores who aren’t fully matured yet, physically or mentally and could just focus on identifying and evaluating juniors and making final decisions on the seniors on their list. I bet life would be grand! In an ideal world what would my recruiting cycle or timeline look like for a prospective student-athlete. Spring of Sophomore Year Begin Recruiting Education Process Summer prior to Junior year Attend ID Events, Showcases, Camps, and Clinics Fall/Winter of Junior Year Build a List of Schools (20-30 minimum) Research School and Programs Contact College Coaches Attend College ID Events (Showcases, Camps, and Clinics, etc) Winter/Spring of Junior year Begin prioritizing communications with college coaches Narrow List of Schools (8-10 schools) Start setting up unofficial visits to top choices Attend ID Events Summer prior to Senior Year Narrow list of schools (4-5 schools) Attend college specific camps and clinics Make Verbal Commitment Fall of Senior Year (If not committed) Set up Official Visits Begin Weighing options The Decision We obviously do not live in an ideal world but there would be huge benefits to the next generation if the recruiting cycle returned to the way it was 20 years ago. Benefits of the Recruiting Cycle Returning to the 2000’s Relieve the amount of pressure on freshman and sophomores to perform at high levels to impress college coaches. Freshman and Sophomores can focus on learning ,loving their sport, and improving. Limit the burnout rate of elite level student-athletes. Allows more equipped young adults to make a life altering decision. Save parents time and money invested into the college process Allow college coaches to focus on 2 recruiting classes , not 4. College coaches will be able to identify and evaluate more physically mature athletes, rather than projecting where a student-athlete might be in 2 years. In the end, we need to do it for the mental health of the student-athletes. There are so many challenges academically, athletically, personally, and socially they need to deal with. We don't need to pile on the added pressure of college talk at 14-15 years old. It is hard enough just being a kid and making the transition from adolescence to young adulthood. They are not equipped to begin thinking about college and the rest of their lives. Let’s give the decision back to Seniors!

7 Habits of Highly Recruitable Student-Athletes

By Chris Stack • 06 Jan, 2021
Do you want to continue your academic and athletic career in college? Do you think you have what it takes to be a college student-athlete? Playing in college goes well beyond your athletic abilities. Do you rest on your talents or are you willing to put in the time, effort, and energy to be the best you possibly can? Would you consider yourself lazy? Do you prioritize your academics? What kind of character do you have? Being recruited is about being a well-rounded individual. Taking the words from Shaquille O’Neal who borrowed them from Aristotle, “Excellence is not a singular act but a habit. You are what you repeatedly do.” Leaving athletic abilities and skills aside, what are the habits of a highly recruitable student-athlete? Stephen Covey, the world renown author developed the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, I have created my own 7 Habits of Highly Recruitable Student-Athletes: Habit #1: Identify Goals We also call this habit “Discovering Your Why.” This is very similar to Stephen Covey’s habit, “Begin with the End in Mind.” Before you start the college recruiting/college search process, you need to establish your motives and goals not only for playing college sports but attending college in general. What do you want to get out of your college experience, academically, athletically, and personally? Your answers to these questions will define your why. By developing this foundation you will have a much clearer picture of what you are looking for and how to find it. Habit #2: Self-Confidence Being a college student-athlete, you need to be confident in who you are as a student, an athlete, and a person. If playing your sport is important to you, then there is place out there for you. No matter what level you think you are capable of playing at, possessing self-confidence is an important habit. You need to be able to express to a college coach what value you can provide to their program both on and off the field. The only way you can do that is be confident in who you are. Having self-confidence mixed in with a little self-awareness will take you a long way through the college recruiting process. Habit #3: Prioritize Your Preferences What is important to you? When looking for schools that fit your academic, athletic, and personal needs, you need to figure what factors are most important to you in your college search. Mount St. Mary’s Head Men’s Basketball Coach, Jamion Christian, says that every recruit should write down five things that are important to them in their college experience and stick to the game plan when navigating through the process. Here are some of the factors you need to consider: Location (Distance from home, part of the country, climate) Size Academic Programs Athletic Program Level of Play Playing Time Program Success Habit #4: Understand the Process What do you know about the recruiting process? It’s important to have a grasp of how the process works: What are the differences between the various levels of play (DI, DII, DIII, and NAIA)? What do you know about athletic scholarships? When can you contact a college coach? When can a college coach contact you? How to use Social Media to enhance your personal brand? What are the best ways to communicate with college coaches? How do coaches identify and evaluate prospective student-athletes? Having the answers to these questions will help you navigate through the communication and exposure phase successfully. Habit #5: Be Proactive Nobody will accomplish anything by sitting on the sidelines and watching. If you want something bad enough, you have to take action. The recruiting process is no different. If you are part of the other 98% of high school student-athletes who are not being courted by a big time Division I school, program, or coach you need to do the work to be recruited. Practicing the previous four habits are useless if you aren’t willing to put yourself out there and be proactive. Being Proactive refers to more than the recruiting process but how you approach things in your life. In school, are you willing to go the extra mile to get a better grade on that final exam? Will you spend extra time on the court working on that 20 foot jumper, or more time in the pool to work on that flip turn? You cannot sit idly by and expect you will just magically improve those skills, and in the recruiting process, you cannot wait for college coaches to discover you. You need to contact college coaches directly via email, phone, or even social media. In order to be evaluated by a college coach you need to attend college showcase events or college ID camps/clinics. Being proactive is the habit of implementing and executing action items to achieve specific goals. Habit #6: Appreciate the Journey The opportunity to go through the college recruiting process is the pinnacle of all of the time, effort, energy, and commitment you have made to your sport. It is important that you not only enjoy the experience but appreciate the journey and where you are going. There have been many people who have supported you over the years and have helped you get to this point in your life make sure you appreciate what they have done for you. The coaches who have helped you refine your craft, the teammates you have played alongside, and of course your parents who have sacrificed so much for you to achieve your goals. You should be grateful for the opportunity you have been given. Never take anything for granted. Be thankful for every letter, email, text, social media message you receive from a college coach. There is no better feeling than being wanted and loved by a college coach no matter what division it may be. Coach Christian says, ” go to the place where you are not only loved but wanted and needed. I’ve seen it too many times where student-athletes choose a school where they don’t really want to go but do because of the level. Happiness cannot be measured if you have a burning desire to play. ” You need to keep the big picture in mind, playing college sports is an opportunity to play a sport you love while building an educational foundation for your future. Habit #7: Refine Your Craft Don’t ever be content on where you are with your overall development as a student, an athlete, and as a person. Refining your craft means more than just working on your game, it means preserving and enhancing the greatest asset you have–you. In order to be the best version of yourself by the time you step on campus for the first time, you need to create a balanced program for self development in all aspects your life: physical, social, mental, and spiritual.
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