INTRODUCTION

Navigating the college recruiting process can be confusing and overwhelming. But with the right approach, you can avoid mistakes and find the perfect fit for your academic, athletic, and social goals. Here are some major dos and don’ts of college field hockey recruiting to help you on your journey. 

DO: Find schools that are the “best fit” for you athletically and academically.

Identifying the schools where you can thrive both on the field and in the classroom is crucial. Just as you are trying to find colleges that are your “best fits,” college coaches are seeking student-athletes who will positively impact their teams and contribute to program success. If you are a member of FieldHockeyIntel, utilize your Best Fit Report and school profiles to build a list of 15-30 schools that are athletic and academic matches.

DON’T: Focus only on Division I.

While Division I field hockey gets a lot of attention, there is no ‘best’ division – only the division that best aligns with your athletic ability, academic interests, and vision for your college experience. Each division offers a different balance of athletics, academics, and campus involvement. You need to ask yourself what kind of experience you want as a student-athlete. Do not make the mistake of overlooking the school where you could be happiest because of D1 tunnel vision.

DO: Be proactive and reach out to coaches at your “best fit” schools.

College field hockey coaches rarely have the resources to reach out to a large number of potential recruits, so assume it’s up to you to initiate contact. Fill out recruiting questionnaires and send personalized introductory emails to the college coaches on your list. A customizable introductory email template is available at (https://fieldhockeyintel.com/articles/introductory-email-template).

DON’T: Wait for coaches to find you.

If you’re waiting for coaches to knock on your door, you’re making a mistake. If you do not raise your hand and let a coach know you are interested in their program, there is a good chance they will assume you are not. Being passive can cost you opportunities.

DO: Show coaches your potential.

Tell coaches what makes you unique on and off the field. College coaches are looking for potential, not perfection. Showcase your athletic, academic, and leadership accomplishments and tell your story by filling out your FieldHockeyIntel student-athlete profile. A step-by-step guide can be found at (https://fieldhockeyintel.com/articles/building-your-profile).

DON’T: Use any recruiting service that emails coaches on your behalf.

Generic, mass emails from recruiting services often end up in a coach’s spam folder. Coaches want direct communication from you. Paying to have someone represent you is an ineffective waste of money.

DO: Prioritize academics.

Strong academics can make you a more attractive recruit and open doors to academic scholarships. Ensure your grades and test scores meet the requirements of your target schools. If you have a particular major in mind, make sure that major is offered at any college you are targeting. Ask yourself whether you would still want to attend that college if you had a career-ending injury or decided to stop playing field hockey.

DON’T: Assume you will be admitted to a college just because you are a strong player.

Even if you are a stellar player, you still need to meet the school’s academic standards. Many programs prioritize recruits who excel both in the classroom and on the field.

DO: Keep college coaches updated regularly.

Assume it is your responsibility to keep the conversation going. Update them regularly or risk them thinking you have moved on and are no longer interested. A guide to crafting email updates for college coaches can be found at (https://fieldhockeyintel.com/articles/crafting-email-updates-to-college-coaches).

DON’T: Burn bridges.

Even if you are not interested in a program, handle it professionally. Thank coaches for their time and interest. The recruiting world is smaller than you think – you never know when a coach, program, or connection may cross paths with you again.

DO: Have financial conversations with coaches before you commit.

Understand what costs you’ll be responsible for and whether you’re receiving an athletic and/or academic scholarship. If you are to receive athletic or academic scholarships, consider whether you could still afford the school if those funds were reduced or unavailable. Transparency about finances can save you from unpleasant surprises later.

DON’T: Assume you’re going to get a massive athletic scholarship.

Field hockey scholarships are limited and often divided among multiple athletes. Be realistic and explore other forms of financial aid to make college more affordable.

DO: Start early.

The recruiting process begins earlier than many expect. You do not want to miss the opportunity to make it onto a coach’s radar. Research programs, prepare your email templates, and reach out to coaches as early as the end of your sophomore year, but no later than the middle of your junior year. If you are late to the game, you can still find a roster spot, but it gets increasingly more difficult the longer you wait.

DON’T: Overlook deadlines and academic requirements.

Missing deadlines for transcript requests or college applications can derail your chances of getting that roster spot offer. Stay organized and stay on top of requirements. Meet with your college guidance counselor to ensure you are taking the right classes to be NCAA eligible.

DO: Be professional and honest.

Communicate respectfully and be truthful about your abilities, interests, and goals. Coaches value recruits who are authentic and reliable. You don’t want to start your college career off on the wrong foot.

DON’T: Post stupid stuff online.

The internet is forever. If you become a member of a college team, you will be a representative of that team. Don’t post anything on your social media accounts that could harm your reputation or embarrass your coach. Even if your account is private, assume the world will see it.

DO: Take that official/unofficial visit.

Campus visits give you a firsthand look at the team culture, facilities, and overall environment. Take advantage of these opportunities to determine whether this is the place where you can thrive personally, as well as academically and athletically.  

DON’T: Assume a team is a good social fit until you spend time with them.

What looks good on paper may not always feel right in person. Spend time with the team and ask yourself if you can see yourself thriving in that environment. The relationships you build with your teammates will have a major impact on your happiness and success in college. Choose a program where you feel most at home.

DO: Be patient with the recruiting process; it usually takes months.

Recruiting is a marathon, not a sprint. Coaches need time to evaluate recruits, and you’ll need time to find the right fit. Trust the process and stay persistent.

DON’T: Get frustrated.

If a coach doesn’t respond or the process takes longer than expected, don’t lose hope. Keep working hard, updating coaches on your list, and casting a wide net.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Getting recruited to play field hockey in college is a challenging but life-changing journey. By following these dos and don’ts, you can better position yourself for success and find the program that’s the perfect fit for you. Remember, it’s not just about playing well – it’s about finding a team, coach, and school that sets you up for success and happiness.