Are you a high school athlete dreaming of playing at the collegiate level? The recruiting process can feel overwhelming, but understanding what coaches truly value can set you apart. In a recent episode of the Rooted Sport Psychology Show, host Georgia Miller sat down with Eimear Reddin, Assistant Women’s Soccer Coach at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), to discuss the nuanced qualities coaches seek in recruits—on and off the field.
This in-depth guide distills Eimear’s expert advice, offering actionable tips and deeper insights for athletes, parents, and anyone navigating the college sports landscape.
Beyond the Game: What Coaches Observe
It’s not just about your stats. Coach Eimear Reddin emphasizes that coaches are watching you at all times—not just during the game, but in warm-ups, on the bench, and after the final whistle.
What Coaches Notice:
- Body Language: Are you engaged with your teammates or sulking after a mistake?
- Team Interactions: Do you celebrate others’ successes? How do you handle frustration?
- Off-the-Ball Behavior: Are you supportive from the sidelines, or do you check out when not playing?
Actionable Advice:
- Stay present and positive, even when things aren’t going your way.
- Support teammates vocally and with gestures—high-fives, encouragement, and celebrating small wins matter.
- Avoid negative displays like throwing equipment or isolating yourself after a tough play.
Expert Insight:
“Coaches value athletes who remain connected to the team and demonstrate positive interactions, as this reflects their attitude and emotional intelligence.” – Eimear Reddin
Authenticity in Communication
Genuine conversations matter. When coaches reach out, they want to know the real you—not just your rehearsed answers.
How to Stand Out:
- Share Your Passions: Talk about what you love outside of your sport—volunteering, hobbies, family time.
- Be Honest: Don’t give robotic answers. If you’re nervous, say so. If you have unique interests, share them.
- Show Your Values: Let your personality and values shine through in every interaction.
Actionable Advice:
- Prepare for calls by reflecting on what makes you unique, not just your athletic achievements.
- Practice talking about your “why”—the deeper reason you play your sport.
- Avoid over-coaching your responses; authenticity is more memorable than perfection.
Expert Insight:
“Coaches appreciate learning about the human side of their recruits. Be honest and open.” – Eimear Reddin
The Power of Internal Drive
Motivation is everything. Eimear highlights that the best athletes are those who are self-driven, not just motivated by external rewards.
What Coaches Look For:
- Consistent Effort: Do you work hard when no one is watching?
- Personal “Why”: Are you playing for yourself, or just to impress others?
- Resilience: Can you push through tough days and setbacks?
Actionable Advice:
- Reflect on your personal motivations and be ready to articulate them.
- Set goals that are meaningful to you, not just to your coaches or parents.
- Develop routines that keep you accountable, even in the off-season.
Expert Insight:
“Athletes who play simply to impress coaches often lose sight of their passion. Having a clear, personal reason for playing helps maintain focus and resilience.” – Eimear Reddin
Taking Initiative in Recruiting
Direct contact makes a difference. While recruiting services can be helpful, Emer prefers to hear from athletes directly.
Best Practices:
- Reach Out Yourself: Email or call coaches before involving recruiting coordinators or platforms.
- Personalize Your Message: Reference the school, program, or something specific about the coach.
- Follow Up: If you don’t hear back, send a polite follow-up message.
Actionable Advice:
- Draft a concise, personalized introduction email.
- Include your academic interests, athletic achievements, and why you’re interested in that program.
- Keep your social media professional—coaches may check if they want to learn more about you.
Expert Insight:
“Personal contact demonstrates genuine interest and effort, which coaches value highly.” – Eimear Reddin
The Role of Parents: Support, Not Spotlight
Let the athlete lead. Parents play a crucial role, but the recruiting process should be athlete-driven.
How Parents Can Help:
- Support, Don’t Direct: Let your child handle communications with coaches.
- Step In When Needed: Be available for questions about logistics, especially after an offer is extended.
- Encourage Independence: Use this process as a learning experience for your child.
Actionable Advice:
- Resist the urge to speak for your athlete in emails or calls.
- Help your child prepare, but let them take the lead.
- Be a sounding board for concerns, especially during the transition to college.
Expert Insight:
“This process is often the first major step toward independence for many young athletes.” – Eimear Reddin
Navigating the High School to College Transition
The jump is real. Freshmen face new academic, athletic, and social pressures.
Common Challenges:
- Adjusting to New Teams: Building trust and finding your place.
- Academic Demands: Balancing coursework with training and travel.
- Living Away from Home: Managing independence and homesickness.
Actionable Advice:
- Communicate openly with coaches about how you’re feeling.
- Seek out team bonding opportunities—dinners, study sessions, or outings.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help, whether it’s academic support or mental health resources.
Expert Insight:
“Coaches want to hear about how players are feeling, whether they’re nervous or overwhelmed, as this helps create a supportive environment.” – Eimear Reddin
Building Team Relationships: The Key to Success
Connection off the field leads to confidence on it. Athletes who invest in team relationships perform better and enjoy the experience more.
Why It Matters:
- Comfort Breeds Confidence: Knowing your teammates have your back reduces anxiety about mistakes.
- Shared Experiences: Team dinners, study groups, and even fun outings build trust.
- Leadership Through Service: Small acts—like picking up equipment or helping set up drills—show commitment.
Actionable Advice:
- Stay on campus for team activities, especially on weekends.
- Go out of your way to help teammates and staff.
- Express gratitude for meals, support, and opportunities.
Expert Insight:
“Leaving a space better than you found it, like picking up trash even if it wasn’t yours, is a simple yet powerful way to show leadership and respect.” – Eimear Reddin
Character Over Talent: The “Good Human” Factor
Talent gets you noticed; character gets you recruited. Coaches want athletes who represent their program well in all aspects.
What Sets You Apart:
- Consistency: Are you the same person off the field as on it?
- Respect: Do you treat staff, teammates, and opponents with kindness?
- Responsibility: Do you understand you represent your school and community?
Actionable Advice:
- Be mindful of your actions on social media and in public.
- Take pride in your role as a representative of your team.
- Remember that small actions—like saying thank you—reflect your character.
Expert Insight:
“Coaches want players who will represent the program well in all aspects.” – Eimear Reddin
Final Words of Wisdom
As you navigate your athletic journey, remember:
- Listen to your coaches, but also ask questions.
- Find what motivates you personally.
- Enjoy the experience—college athletics is a fleeting, special time.
- Don’t get bogged down by mistakes or perfectionism.
- Focus on growth, relationships, and the bigger picture.
Conclusion
The recruiting process is about more than just talent—it’s about who you are as a person, teammate, and leader. By embracing authenticity, building relationships, and demonstrating character, you’ll not only improve your chances of being recruited but also set yourself up for a fulfilling college athletic experience.
Ready to take the next step? Start by being the best version of yourself—on and off the field.