As parents, we want the best for our kids right? I mean we’re their biggest supporters, cheerleaders, funders, and outlets at times. I’m a new parent and my daughter hasn’t gotten to the high school level yet but I do remember my athletic recruiting experience.

My parents didn’t know much about the process so I think that helped me a lot because I was doing a lot of it on my own. Not saying that’s a bad thing. But sometimes parents can do too much and this could lead to costing your child an athletic scholarship opportunity.

I talk to college coaches on a regular basis, and I always hear stories of how parents are overbearing, too involved, and in some cases headaches.

With that being said, are you making any of these athletic recruiting mistakes that could be costing your child opportunities at the next level?

1. Not letting your athlete take the initiative

Coaches love when athletes act on their own when it comes to athletic recruiting. When an athlete takes the initiative and leads their recruiting journey, it makes them stand out to college coaches. No coach wants an athlete who just “kinda” wants to be there. They want athletes who would rather be no place else, athletes that are willing to buy into the program. If they have parents doing the heavy lifting makes your student-athlete seem not as interested.

2. Emailing coaches about your athlete

Number two piggy-backs off of number one. Some college coaches don’t look forward to parents and third parties reaching out to them about potential prospects. I’ve had coaches tell me that they actually delete emails from third parties, just something to think about. They look forward to hearing from the prospect personally.

Don’t be afraid to coach your student-athlete through writing an effective email. Athletic recruiting is a team sport so being involved is key but taking over the process is costly.

3. Being a helicopter parent

Are you completing your student-athlete’s sentences or answering the coaches questions before they have a chance to open their mouth? Maybe you’re attached to their hip on a recruiting visit. These things can turn a college coach off as well. Let you child take the lead and be there for help if they need it.

4. Not Realizing You’re Being Recruited Too

A lot of parents forget the fact that they’re being recruited as well. College coaches pay attention to EVERYTHING. Meaning, they see how you act in the bleachers and crowd, they see your social media accounts as well, and they ask your child’s current coaches about you as well. I don’t want to scare you away from being passionate and excited at games, but I would recommend keeping in the back of your mind that eyes are on you too.

I hope you enjoyed this quick article and found value in it. If you need help with athletic recruiting grab your free Athletic Recruiting Checklist Bundle HERE or by clicking this link: https://bit.ly/3vG7nl2

Happy Recruiting