College Recruiting Timeline

When does the recruiting process begin? This is a frequently asked question. If my son is not hearing from coaches does this mean he is not a good enough player? Another question I hear often. The answer to both questions is really covered with one simple answer...the process begins when you the player/parent start it. The vast, vast majority of potential college players will not hear from a coach before they reach out to the coach themselves to begin the dialogue. Baseball Recruiting, except at the very highest levels does not have the budget to fly coaches around the country to watch players play. This is why it is paramount that players/families are proactive in the recruiting experience and stick to the timeline posted below. Although NCAA Rules have changed in the past couple years in order to slow down the recruiting process it is always best to be the first in line. Below is a Recruiting Timeline posted by the NCSA...adhering to this timeline does not guarantee success but it certainly will expand your options as the time to sign with a school gets closer! Pitch Velocity 84mph to 95+mph

Freshman Year

• Research two to three schools per week
• Create a list of 100 prospective schools that are good athletic and academic matches
• Film a skills video
• Send letters or emails of introduction to coaches
• Go on at least three unofficial visits to colleges
• Pick two to three camps and one or two showcases to attend after the school season
• Follow up! Build relationships by making phone calls and sending letters and emails

Tips to remember:
• Once coaches have identified a potential recruit, they chart their development throughout high school, at camps, in school and on the field. In addition to baseball skills, they are also considering character; how the recruit carries himself on the field and with this teammates and coach
• It is never too early to write a letter or email or call coaches
• Student-athletes can contact coaches at any time, but NCAA DI and NCAA DII coaches can’t personally respond until junior year
• NCAA DIII and NAIA coaches are not limited as to when they can contact student-athletes
• Do not apply to a school that is not a good athletic or academic fit. This is where target school research is helpful

Sophomore Year
• Student-athletes should film or update their skills tape and get it evaluated by a third-party
• Continue to research prospective schools and narrow the list of target schools
• Continue to build relationships by making calls, sending letters and emails with coaches from programs identified to be a good fit
• Fill out questionnaires
• Make unofficial visits

Junior Year
• Update the skills video and get it re-evaluated
• Follow up with coaches in a timely manner. Respond to every coach
• Ask coaches where you stand on their recruits list
• Continue to fill out questionnaires
• Continue to make unofficial school visits
• Further narrow down the list of target schools

Tips to remember:
• NCAA DI and DII schools can begin to make scholarship offers
• Contact coaches individually at least once a week. Do not bombard a coach with emails if they have not responded

Senior Year

Make Official Visits
Follow Up with Coaches in a Timely Manner
Apply to Schools and Apply for Financial Aid
Sign and Commit to a School and Program
Find Out When Workouts Begin

Tips to remember:

Student-Athletes are Only Allowed 5 Official Visits
NCAA DIII, NAIA, JUCO and some NCAA DII Schools Still Recruit During Senior Year. Set Up Tryouts and Invite the Right Coaches
- Be aware of deadlines for:
  NCAA Amateurism Certificate
  FAFSA
  College Applications
  NCAA and/or NAIA Eligibility Center Registration
  Final Transcripts and Proof of High School Graduation