How do I stay engaged and motivated throughout the recruiting process?
One of the biggest challenges student athletes face is remaining engaged and motivated throughout the recruiting process. It’s easy to fall in a slump after being rejected multiple times from college coaches. This process is filled with emotional ups and downs. There are times when you may have multiple options, and other times when you may be looking around with none. As a parent, or a coach, it’s hard to watch your athlete’s struggle with the emotional pressures. Many of their peers may be committing around them, and as a recent family shared, it’s like “always being a bridesmaid, and never becoming a bride.”
So how can I stay motivated?
Take one day at a time! A panic attack is not going to get you anywhere, in fact, it will make you feel much worse. It’s easy to become overwhelmed if you are looking at the overall process. As a college volleyball recruiting expert, I advise you take one piece at a time. Evaluate what is important to you in your college experience. This may not be clear if you have not stepped foot on a college campus. Visiting local colleges is a great first step to understand what makes each college unique. Regardless if you can get recruited by that particular school, you may find certain aspects of colleges are not a fit, such as size, or location.
Understand there are over 1,500 college volleyball programs and over 400,000 high school girls competing. If you are certain you want to play at the next level, don’t be ashamed to ask for help or guidance through the recruiting process. This can help you stay on track and remain motivated! Regardless of your level, I have never seen an athlete not have at least one, if not multiple options to play in college. A recruiting coordinator is great tool for a family, as we have been through this process several times.
You coaches and club directors are happy to become involved as well, however you want to approach them when you have a solid list of schools you have been in communication with, and are interested in pursuing. You need to be able to explain what you are looking for in a college. This is critical for your coach to be of real assistance to you. If you want them to pick up their phone to call on your behalf, they need to be brought up to speed on your needs. A coach is potentially sticking their neck out on the line for you, a reference should not be taken lightly, so communication will be important. Coaches and club directors can also keep you engaged. Typically they take interest in what you are experiencing, and they can offer you emotional support about your athletic progress!
Keep in mind this time in your life will not last forever. Your skin will thicken, and you will become emotionally stronger as you hear constructive criticism, and face rejection. If you find you need emotional support, consider reaching out to Kara Zakzrewski of Mental Toughness Inc. who is a Mental Toughness Coach. Kara specializes in mental toughness training for elite athletes who wish to pursue their sport in college or professionally. She can be a great asset in your toolbox. It’s nice to have another supportive person in your life who can help you see the light!
In my years of experience working with student athletes who want to play at the collegiate level, I have found that things usually work themselves out. Having a positive attitude, and re-evaluating your strategy on an on-going basis is necessary to remain on track. Do not underestimate the importance of a strategy! For personal guidance through the recruiting process, email [email protected] to set up a free consultation. I’d be happy to provide you with an understanding on how this process actually works, and walk you through it successfully.
