By Andrea Emmons
December is the time of year when seniors start to panic about the recruiting process and feel a rush to the finish line. The final high school volleyball season recently wrapped up, the early signing date has passed and application deadlines are quickly approaching. If you are in this position you may have questions such as: Are coaches still looking for players? Am I good enough to play in college? Does this coach really want me?
It is important to remember that there are hills and valleys in recruiting, just like there are in life. One day you feel like you’re an all-star, the next you’re riding the bench. It’s important for everyone to realize that there are a lot options out there. No one is saying it’s easy, but is it achievable? The answer is “yes!” Focus on the basics: attitude, endurance and effort.
I am sure everyone has faced an opponent during their career that seems impossible to beat. No matter what you do, this team is still going to win. I want you to ask yourself “What is my attitude like during this game?” Are you the type to rollover and accept your fate or stand up against all odds and fight it out. Even if the other team stuffs you at the net or digs your hardest hit, you need to be that girl to come back to the middle after every play. You need to keep that positive attitude. Most of all you need to “believe” that you are going to accomplish your goal. Imagine recruiting as that same situation. Your confidence and attitude are going to pull you through. Coaches are looking for a “can do” attitude, so portray that at all times.
It is also important that you work hard through senior year. Coaches are looking for players with potential and drive to succeed. Don’t let up on either your academics or athletics. If you are a 3.0 student, focus on getting to a 3.2 by the end of senior year. If you had a mediocre high school season, have a great club season. A strong finish is vital to your success. You better believe that coaches notice improvement. Coaches would rather have a person who is going to continue to excel during college, not peak senior year of high school. Show the coaches that you are resilient and driven.
Lastly, if coaches aren’t coming to you, then it’s up to you to make it happen. College scholarships and roster spots are not going to fall into your lap. Successful student-athletes realize that it takes time and effort. Pick up the phone and call a college coach, introduce yourself to new coaches, and spread the work about your ability. There is always something you could be doing to promote your abilities. This decision will affect you for the next four years and ultimately the rest of your life. A “take charge” mentality will put this decision back into your hands and no one else’s. Let the college coaches know what your recruiting timeline is. Be sure to ask coaches the tough recruiting questions, no matter what the answer. I know this may be uncomfortable and new to you, but this is your future and you have every right to inquire about it!
Think of recruiting as a marathon. People say that running a marathon is about mental preparation and training. You don’t have to be the fastest or thinnest to win the race. It is important that you have a great attitude, strong training, and the drive to make it happen. All you have to do is finish the race.
