Navigating the College Recruiting Process: Mindset, Mistakes, and Mastery

Episode Recap: Rooted Sport Psychology Podcast with Georgia & Grayson Miller

The college recruiting process is one of the most pivotal—and often stressful—journeys for aspiring student-athletes. In a recent episode of the Rooted Sport Psychology Podcast, host Georgia Miller and her brother Grayson Miller, a former Division I athlete, coach, and athletics administrator, dive deep into the realities of recruitment. Drawing from their own experiences and professional insights, they break down the strategies, common pitfalls, and mindset shifts that can make or break an athlete’s recruiting journey.

This blog post distills their conversation into actionable, in-depth guidance for athletes and families navigating the recruiting landscape. Whether you’re just starting out or deep in the process, these expert-backed tips will help you approach recruitment with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

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1. Mindset Matters: Embrace the “Nothing to Lose” Approach

Why Mindset is Everything

Grayson’s story highlights a powerful truth: the right mindset can transform your recruiting experience. Early in his journey, he felt overwhelmed and intimidated, constantly comparing himself to others and worrying about every moment. But his breakthrough came when he attended a Michigan State camp with a “nothing to lose” mentality. Free from the pressure of expectations, he performed at his best—and earned a full scholarship.

Actionable Advice

• Let Go of Fear: Treat every camp, showcase, or conversation as an opportunity, not a test. When you stop fearing mistakes, you unlock your true potential.
• Focus on What You Can Control: Prepare thoroughly, but once you’re on the field or court, trust your training and play freely.
• Reframe Pressure: Instead of seeing high-stakes moments as make-or-break, view them as chances to learn and grow.

Expert Insight

“When you go into a showcase or camp with the mindset that you have nothing to lose, you’re more likely to perform freely and confidently. It’s better to walk away knowing you gave it your all than to feel like you played it safe and timid.” — Georgia Miller

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2. Avoid the Comparison Trap: Your Path is Unique

The Danger of Comparison

Both Georgia and Grayson admit that comparing themselves to other athletes—whether it was peers committing early or players on TV—robbed them of joy and confidence. The recruiting timeline is different for everyone, and comparison only breeds frustration and self-doubt.

Actionable Advice

• Define Your Own Success: Write down your goals and revisit them often. Are you chasing a dream that’s truly yours, or one shaped by others’ expectations?
• Celebrate Small Wins: Every offer, conversation, or improvement is a step forward. Don’t diminish your progress by measuring it against someone else’s.
• Limit Social Media: Remember, social media highlights are curated. Focus on your journey, not the online narratives of others.

Expert Insight

“Comparison is the biggest thief of joy in recruiting. Your race is your own, and where you finish is up to you.” — Grayson Miller

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3. Define Your Goals: Be Specific and Honest

Why Clarity is Crucial

A vague goal like “I want to play college sports” isn’t enough. Grayson wanted to play in the Big Ten or SEC, while Georgia prioritized playing time and impact over division status. Both had to confront and adjust their expectations, but clarity helped them make decisions aligned with their true desires.

Actionable Advice

• Get Specific: What level do you want to play at? What kind of campus culture, academic programs, and team environment matter to you?
• Be Honest About Your Fit: Assess your skills, body type, and personality. Where will you thrive—not just survive?
• Own Your Decision: Don’t let family, coaches, or peers dictate your path. This is your future.

Expert Insight

“Don’t commit somewhere just for the social media moment or to impress others. This is about you and your future.” — Grayson Miller

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4. Understand What Coaches Really Look For

Beyond Talent: The Intangibles

Many athletes believe they need to play perfectly when coaches are watching. In reality, coaches are looking for much more than highlight-reel moments. They want to see how you handle adversity, communicate, and carry yourself on and off the field.

What Coaches Value Most

• Resilience: How do you respond to mistakes? Do you bounce back quickly or let errors affect your play?
• Body Language: Coaches notice if you roll your eyes, ignore teammates, or show frustration. Positive, confident body language is non-negotiable.
• Consistency: Coaches watch full games, not just highlights. They want to see steady effort and attitude, not just flashes of brilliance.
• Character: Your academic habits, social media presence, and interactions with others all matter. Coaches want athletes who represent their program well.

Actionable Advice

• Practice Recovery: In training, intentionally put yourself in tough situations and practice bouncing back.
• Audit Your Online Presence: Clean up your social media and ensure it reflects your values and maturity.
• Be a Leader: Communicate positively, support teammates, and show respect to coaches and officials.

Expert Insight

“I would immediately cross off any athlete who showed poor body language—like rolling their eyes at teammates or ignoring coaches—no matter how talented they were.” — Georgia Miller

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5. Trust the Process: Patience and Perspective

The Reality of Recruiting

The recruiting process is rarely linear. Offers may come and go, timelines shift, and plans change. Both Georgia and Grayson emphasize the importance of patience and trusting that the right fit will emerge, even if the journey is confusing or difficult.

Actionable Advice

• Stay Engaged: Keep communicating with coaches, attending camps, and updating your film—even if things seem slow.
• Be Open to Change: Sometimes the best opportunities are the ones you didn’t expect.
• Reflect Regularly: Check in with yourself about your goals and feelings. Adjust as needed, but don’t lose sight of your core values.

Expert Insight

“Even if the recruiting journey is tough and confusing, landing at your school will make sense in the end.” — Georgia Miller

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Key Takeaways & Next Steps

• Mindset is your greatest asset. Approach every opportunity with confidence and a willingness to learn.
• Comparison is counterproductive. Focus on your unique journey and goals.
• Clarity leads to better decisions. Define what you want and pursue it relentlessly.
• Coaches value character as much as talent. Show resilience, leadership, and maturity.
• Trust the process. Stay patient, adaptable, and true to yourself.

If you’re seeking personalized guidance through your recruiting journey, don’t hesitate to reach out to Georgia Miller at georgia@coach.

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Final Thought

The recruiting process is about more than just landing a scholarship or a roster spot—it’s about finding the right fit for your athletic, academic, and personal growth. Own your process, stay true to your values, and remember: your journey is yours alone.