Youth Inc. Recommends: A Step-by-Step Guide to Recruiting

The college recruiting process can feel like high-stakes matchmaking—with a lot of room for missteps. From the questions you ask to how you behave on a campus visit; every interaction shapes an impression. And while talent matters, so does timing, communication, and how you present yourself (and your parents). It’s not just about getting noticed—it’s about showing you're the right fit for the program, both on and off the field. 

 Here are some smart, practical resources to help you and your athlete navigate the recruiting process with clarity, confidence, and credibility: 

Questions College Coaches HATE Getting Asked by Athletes 

What it is: A candid video featuring a former college coach who shares the top questions that athletes should avoid asking during the recruiting process. It provides insights into why certain questions can be off-putting and how to approach conversations more effectively.​ 

Why we like it: This video offers a behind-the-scenes look at the recruiting process from a coach's perspective. By understanding what not to ask, athletes can make a stronger impression and navigate conversations with confidence.​ 

Don’t Do These Five Things on Your College Recruiting Trip 

What it is: A candid video featuring NCAA Division I swimmers Kyle Millis and Jason Louser, who share five common mistakes athletes make during college recruiting visits. Drawing from their experiences hosting 30–40 recruits annually and being recruited themselves, they offer practical advice on how to navigate official visits effectively.​ 

Why we like it: This video provides firsthand insights from current college athletes, highlighting the dos and don'ts of recruiting trips. It's a valuable resource for aspiring student-athletes aiming to make a positive impression during their visits.​ 

The Ultimate Guide to College Recruiting  

What it is: A comprehensive, free guide that walks athletes and families through every stage of the recruiting process. It covers topics like building a target school list, crafting effective emails to coaches, creating standout highlight videos, and understanding scholarship opportunities.​ 

Why we like it: This guide goes beyond the basics, offering insights from a network of college coaches across NCAA divisions. It emphasizes the importance of mental toughness, academic readiness, and proactive communication, making it a valuable resource for athletes aiming to be truly "recruit ready."​ 

120 Questions for Parents to Ask College Coaches 

What it is: A comprehensive list of 120 thoughtful questions designed to help parents engage meaningfully with college coaches. The questions are organized into categories such as coaching philosophy, academic support, team culture, financial considerations, and recruitment processes.​  

Why we like it: This resource empowers parents to move beyond generic inquiries, facilitating deeper conversations that can reveal whether a program aligns with their child's athletic and academic goals. It's a valuable tool for families seeking to make informed decisions during the recruiting process.​ 

What Parents Shouldn’t Do During the Recruiting Process  

What it is: A helpful video that breaks down the role parents should play in the recruiting process—and where to step back. It’s filled with advice from recruiting experts and former college athletes on how to support without taking over. 

Why we like it: This one really gets into the unspoken truth: coaches are recruiting your kid, not you. It covers everything from letting your athlete lead the conversation to how to behave on visits (and what might scare coaches off). Support matters—but staying in the background at the right moments might matter even more.