1. Research Schools and Programs

Before contacting any coaches, it’s important to research schools that align with your athletic and academic goals. Consider factors such as:

• The level of competition (NCAA Division I, II, III, NAIA, or NJCAA)

• The team’s performance history

• The school’s academic programs

• Location and campus culture

Create a list of schools that match your criteria, and prioritize them based on your preferences.

Not sure where to start? Here is a website where you can choose a division and sport to explore a comprehensive list of schools that fit your criteria. https://www.collegepipe.com/universities (scroll down for a map)

2. Prepare Your Athletic Resume

Your athletic resume is your introduction to coaches and should showcase your talents and achievements. Include:

• Personal details (name, age, nationality, and contact information)

• Academic information (GPA, test scores, intended major)

• Athletic achievements (statistics, awards, and notable performances)

• Links to highlight videos (if available)

Keep it concise and professional, ensuring all information is up-to-date.

3. Create a Highlight Video

A highlight video is an essential tool for showcasing your skills to coaches. Here are some tips for creating an effective video:

• Keep it short (3-5 minutes is ideal)

• Focus on your best plays and skills relevant to your sport

• Use high-quality footage

• Include your contact information and academic details at the beginning or end

4. Craft a Personal Email

When reaching out to coaches, personalization is key. A generic email is unlikely to grab their attention. Follow this structure:

• Subject Line: Use a clear and specific subject, such as “Prospective Student-Athlete: [Your Name], [Sport]”

• Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself, mentioning your name, nationality, and sport.

• Why You’re Interested: Explain why you’re interested in their program and how you can contribute to the team.

• Key Information: Highlight your academic and athletic achievements.

• Call to Action: Express interest in discussing potential opportunities and ask any relevant questions.

• Signature: Include your full name, contact information, and links to your resume and highlight video.

5. Be Proactive and Follow Up

Coaches receive numerous emails daily, so don’t hesitate to send a follow-up email if you don’t hear back within two weeks. Keep it polite and professional, reiterating your interest in their program.

6. Utilize Social Media

Many coaches actively use social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram to discover and connect with recruits. Follow their accounts, engage with their content respectfully, and share your athletic achievements on your own profiles.

7. Understand the Rules

Be aware of the NCAA’s recruiting rules, which govern when and how coaches can contact prospective student-athletes. Familiarize yourself with the timelines and restrictions to ensure compliance.

8. Stay Organized

Keep track of your communications with coaches. Create a spreadsheet to log:

• The schools you’ve contacted

• Coach names and email addresses

• Dates of correspondence

• Notes on responses

This will help you stay on top of your recruiting efforts and follow up effectively.

Contacting coaches is a critical step in your journey as an international student-athlete. By being prepared, professional, and persistent, you can build meaningful connections and increase your chances of earning a spot on a college team. Remember, every interaction with a coach is an opportunity to showcase your dedication and passion—make it count!