The world of college recruiting is a dynamic one, and the dream of "if you build it, they'll come" is even less true today than ten years ago. Even as the sport expands into new areas of the country, the number of skilled players in hotbed areas offers easy pickings for college coaches with limited time and even more limited travel budgets.
Luckily, the internet offers a great levelling effect for players to get the attention of college coaches with a variety of tools that can be used to great effect. Most college coaches have been adept at using the tools of internet communication and will be responsive to your presentation online.
An important starting note. The song says "you are what you are, and you ain't what you ain't." In planning for college it behooves you to know the difference. Set your college goals for schools that fit you, feel right, and offer a path to your adult life. Athletically, know your level of reach. Get feedback from coaches as to the reality of your dreams. Don't be afraid to think big, but don't set yourself up to frustration and failure either. So, make a list of colleges that are a fit academically, socially, and athletically.
Create a video highlight reel. There are many guides for this, but the key is WOW! - powerful, well produced, complete presentation of your skills. Place it on YouTube and be sure that it loads quickly, plays well and has your contact information at least. A screen shot of your academic and bio information is helpful.
Go to the lacrosse page of each college - usually athletics, mens' lacrosse, and get the email address for all the coaches. Most often the recruiting is done by an assistant so all the addresses are important. Then navigate to the Prospective Student Questionairre and complete it. This will signal your interest and put you on the radar as a candidate.
Send the coach a letter (yes, snail mail is still helpful) saying you are interested in their school and why. Don't be vague. "I am interested in ______ because of the friendly community, my anticipated major, the quality of faculty, proximity to family..." whatever it may be, but be real. Include a DVD of your highlight reel and your contact information.
Now you are ready to show the coach that you are a great find for his program. Email him your schedule for school or club games, tournaments, and camps. Tweet your specific tournament schedule, number, game schedule, and any honors such as all star selections. Your goal is to make it easy for him to see you play, have someone scout you, or notice your achievements in quality competition.
Engage the coach and respond to communication from him or his staff. Be timely. There is an expectation of responsiveness online and delays are seen as lack of interest. Respond to all contacts. Even if it is from a second choice school respond genuinely. Coaches talk to one another and are looking both for good athletes and people who are easy to work with. Be respectful. The internet is no place for snide, snarky.
Monitor all your online presentations. Everything you write and post is fair game for review. If you have some inappropriate photos or crude text it will work against you.
Whether you are in a hotbed area or the remote part of the midwest, the internet and its tools can assist you in achieving your post high school goals.
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