Steps to Help Your Athlete Gain Exposure
Navigating the world of college recruiting can feel overwhelming, especially with the rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, the transfer portal, and the increasingly competitive nature of scholarships. A clear plan is essential for athletes and their families to maximize opportunities and avoid costly mistakes. As a quick reference, here are five actionable steps to help your athlete gain exposure and stand out to college coaches.
Step 1: Attend Local Showcases and College Camps
Exposure begins with showing up. Attending local showcases and college camps is one of the most effective ways to get noticed by college coaches.
Why it’s crucial: College coaches evaluate athletes in person at these events, focusing on skill, consistency, and effort. A standout performance may even lead to a free invite to future camps or placement on a recruiting list.
What to do:
Research reputable showcases and camps in your area.
Budget $60-$120 per camp and plan accordingly.
Always bring your “A game,” as coaches might be watching when you least expect it.
Use these events to connect with local sportswriters and media personnel who can amplify your exposure.
Coach Ed Tip: Consistency is key. Even if you’re unsure whether anyone is watching, give your best at every camp or showcase.
Step 2: Build a Strong Relationship with Your Head Coach
Your head coach can be a vital advocate in the recruiting process. College coaches often rely on high school coaches for trusted recommendations.
Why it’s crucial: A head coach’s endorsement carries weight with college programs, especially when they introduce you to visiting recruiters or speak on your behalf.
What to do:
Schedule a meeting with your coach to discuss your goals and aspirations.
Ask your coach to introduce you to college recruiters when they visit your school.
If your coach lacks connections, focus on excelling on the field to attract outside attention.
Coach Ed Tip: Stay respectful and appreciative of your head coach’s efforts, even if they can’t provide every connection you need.
Step 3: Utilize Social Media Effectively
Social media is a powerful tool for connecting directly with college coaches and showcasing your skills. Use platforms like Twitter and Instagram to make yourself visible.
Why it’s crucial: Coaches actively scout social media for talent; a well-curated profile can make a strong impression.
What to do:
Post highlights, weight room clips, and game footage consistently.
Tag relevant coaches, programs, and teammates to increase visibility.
Research the schools you’re interested in and send personalized direct messages (DMs) to assistant coaches and recruiting coordinators.
Coach Ed Tip: Follow teammates and other athletes, and share their content to build a supportive network that boosts visibility for everyone.
Step 4: Leverage Football Questionnaires
Completing football questionnaires is an easy yet often overlooked step in getting on a program’s radar. These forms provide essential information to college programs and open doors for further communication.
Why it’s crucial: Submitting questionnaires early allows programs to track your progress and establishes a connection.
What to do:
Identify 10 schools at each level (D1, D2, D3, NAIA, JUCO) that match your skill set.
Complete one questionnaire per day, noting your answers in a Google Doc for reference.
Parents can help by completing forms during downtime and tracking submissions.
Coach Ed Tip: Start early and stay consistent. By your senior year, schools will already know your name and have your film.
Step 5: Be Realistic About Opportunities
The recruiting process is exciting but requires setting realistic expectations. There are over 860 college football programs across five levels, but only a small percentage of athletes receive scholarships.
Why it’s crucial: Understanding your athlete’s true skill level and finding the right fit ensures both academic and athletic success.
What to do:
Research programs that align with your athlete’s abilities.
Discuss financial aid options and the total cost of attendance with your family.
Focus on programs that prioritize player development and fit your athlete’s goals.
Key Stats:
Only 7% of high school athletes earn scholarships.
Just 2% of football players receive full-ride scholarships.
Coach Ed Tip: A smaller program that values your athlete’s development can be more rewarding than chasing a "dream school" that doesn’t align with their needs.
Final Thoughts
The path to college recruiting requires effort, strategy, and patience. By attending events, leveraging social media, building relationships, and staying organized, your athlete can maximize their exposure and find the right program to support their growth. Parents play a crucial role in guiding this process, from managing communication with coaches to fostering realistic expectations.
The recruiting process is challenging. But with a clear plan and dedication, success is possible. Explore our tools and resources to guide you through every step of the process.
