October 17, 2022   |   Tagged Skills,

Presented by Brenna Berkimer, Camp Director

Tips on Getting Recruited: Where to start?

Getting recruited to play college volleyball can be a challenging process to get recruited to the school and level you want to play at. As a Division III coach and former player, I know firsthand how tricky it can be to get recruited. How do you show a college coach you’re a talented athlete? A good person? A good competitor?

During my senior year of high school, I personally emailed film to about 15 DII and DIII schools in the Pacific Northwest. In the end, I had the opportunity to choose between two schools in the Northwest Conference, University of Puget Sound and Whitworth University. Ultimately, I chose Whitworth University because it met my academic and athletic goals, I loved the coach, and it felt comfortable: a place I saw myself spending the next four years living.

It was challenging to patiently wait for the coaches to reply, but I remember my parents telling me to focus on getting better on my club team so that when I received emails back inviting me to come to campus for an official visit, I would be ready. The waiting game is probably the toughest part about pursuing volleyball at the next level. If you really want it, the wait will be worth it.

Here are a few tips about how to get recruited.

1. Email film or link your recruiting profile with film in your first email. As beautifully written as your email could be, it doesn’t mean anything if the coaches have no idea of your volleyball skills.
2. Send an email to the coach yourself. A recruiter you pay can send as many emails about your tournament play schedule, or new film from the most recent tournament, but if you don’t personally express interest in us, how do we know you really like our university?
3. Don’t be afraid to send multiple emails if the coach doesn’t respond. They may just be busy, or they meant to reply but hadn’t yet and your second or third email reminds them to email you back. Don’t let this deter you from continuing to reach out to a coach.
   
4. Take time to send emails that use the coach’s name and school name throughout the email. When I get an email that says, “Dear coach,” I know that email is going to at least 20 other coaches. It isn’t personable. Take time to write, “Dear Coach _______.” Maybe end the email with a “Go lions!” or “Good luck in your next game on Friday!” Trust me, it makes a difference.
   
5. Be a good teammate. Believe it or not, you cannot only rely on your volleyball skills to get you a spot on a college roster. You must be nice to others on and off the court, including your parents. Keep in mind, many coaches will ask your high school or club coaches about how you interact with others.

About NBC Volleyball
NBC Volleyball began in 1979 and was created to help athletes become stronger players and leaders. NBC Volleyball is dedicated to helping every athlete receive the best training and encouragement necessary to reach athletic and life dreams and goals. For more information about NBC Volleyball visit www.nbcvolleyball.com