1. When should I start the recruiting process?

If you want to play at the next level, you can’t wait to stand out. Coaches start evaluating early, and if you're not making an impact on your high school team, it’s harder to get noticed. Recruiting isn’t just about stats—it’s about proving you can solve a problem for a program. With dozens of athletes like you competing for spots, building relationships and having a plan isn’t optional—it’s what separates those who get opportunities from those who don’t.

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2. How do I choose which schools to pursue?

Choosing the right schools to target is crucial. You don’t want to waste time on programs that aren’t a good match. Many athletes don’t know where to start, which schools will offer the right athletic opportunities, or even which ones will meet their academic goals. 

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3. What’s the role of a highlight video in recruiting?

Your highlight video is often the first impression coaches get of you, so it needs to be spot-on. Keep it short, focused on your best plays, and tailored to what college coaches are looking for. 

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​4. How often should I be contacting coaches?

Reaching out to coaches is essential, but it’s important not to overwhelm them. A balanced approach is key. Knowing when and how to contact coaches can be confusing, but a recruiting expert can guide you on how to maintain meaningful communication that gets you noticed without overdoing it.

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5. What is the recruiting timeline for basketball and football?

For most athletes, the recruiting process starts in your junior year. But if you haven’t put the right pieces in place by then—whether it’s your video, your outreach, or knowing the recruiting timeline—things can quickly become more difficult. 

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6. How important are campus visits and recruiting events?

Campus visits and recruiting events are key for making a lasting impression. But how do you decide which events are worth your time? It can be tricky, especially when there are so many options. 

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7. What do coaches look for in a player?

Coaches look for athletes who not only have great skills but also fit their team’s culture and system. Understanding what each school values in a recruit is key to getting noticed. Being placed on a white board comes down to can the player solve a problem, timing, and asking the proper questions to stand out. 

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8. Should I use recruiting platforms like NCSA?

Many athletes turn to platforms like NCSA for help, but there are some challenges. NCSA works with thousands of athletes and doesn't always provide the individualized attention needed to really make an athlete stand out. Coaches often receive mass emails from these platforms, making it harder for your profile to stand out among hundreds of others. Many athletes report that NCSA simply doesn’t provide the detailed, one-on-one support needed to ensure that you're reaching out to the best schools for you.​

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9. How do I manage social media and my online presence?

Social media is a powerful tool in the recruiting process, but you need to make sure you're presenting yourself in the best light. Coaches will check your online profiles, so it’s important that your posts and interactions reflect the athlete you are. 

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10. Is a DI offer the best offer? 

Chasing a DI offer for status over opportunity can lead to the wrong fit. With the transfer portal reshaping college athletics, many DI coaches are prioritizing ready-made players over development. The best offer isn’t just about the level—it’s about finding the right place where you can grow, compete, and succeed both now and in the long run.

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Parents deserve to enjoy watching their child’s sports career without the stress of navigating the recruiting process, and athletes deserve a trusted resource to guide them every step of the way. Ready to find the best fit for your athletic and academic goals? Reach out to LWJ College Fit Consulting today and get personalized guidance that not only builds confidence, but ensures a true fit is found.