An Inside Look Into College and Team Recruiting

During this time of year, we hear from many parents and players interested in getting started or what their next steps are in the college recruiting process. Things have certainly changed and COVID has made a long term if not lasting change in the way recruiters, coaches, and players connect. Our coaching staff and athletic directors have a College Recruiting Primer intended for both parents and players and should be the first step particularly for those freshman. For the sophomore and juniors that are already engaging college admissions, now is a great time to start thinking of questions that are best covered during interviews or visits with various programs.

Question about yourself:

Yes, you need to ask questions about yourself to really know how interested and serious coaches are in you and how well they know who you are and your unique game play. The most successful athletes have a clear vision of who they are, their goals, and where their path leads without having to overly commit to a specific outcome.

Questions to Ask:

1. Where did you see me play?
2. What did you like about my games?
3. Where do you see me fitting in on the team?
4. What opportunities as are there for freshman to play?
5. How do you see my fit in with the current team culture?
6. Where do I stand on your recruiting depth chart and how serious are you about me?
7. What are you current program scholarship commitments are there any opportunities upcoming?

Questions about the team:

Understanding the specific team dynamics and culture is an important part of the decision. You will want to find a team where you will do more then simply fit in but where you have a sense of belonging as a part, while maintaining a sense of uniqueness among your peers.

Questions to Ask:

1. What can you tell me of other players on the team?
2. How do the players connect outside of scheduled practices?
3. What are some off-field opportunities are there for team engagement?
4. Do any of the players on the team live together?
5. Would there be a chance to interact with any current players during a visit?

Questions about the school:

The academic aspects are obviously critically important and most coaches and recruiters will often start and end here. The goal is to set yourself up for success for the next 40 years of your life, and every focus must be larger then the next 4.

Questions to Ask:

1. I am interest in studying and major in XYZ. Can you tell me a bit about this department and where some of the graduates have gone on to post graduation?
2. How do lacrosse players balance time management between team academics and work?
3. Are any of the current players enrolled in this department?
4. Where have other team alumni gone to work after graduation?
5. What is the alumni network like and do they support graduating players looking for first career steps?
6. Are there any academic scholarship programs available?
7. Does the school help with finding summer internships?

These are just some of the concepts and questions you can prepare for before an interview with college coaching staff and recruiters. Its best to have a plan in place that shows how you prepare mentally for major decisions and events, but also to help you identify the best college fit for your needs.