Do you know what coaches are looking for when recruiting for their team? Recruiting is the key to any successful program. I have known some coaches who lacked the coaching experience needed to create a champion team yet were masters when it came to recruiting. The key is developing a successful plan and checklist so that you can choose players with the characteristics that you want in your team.



A player deficient in one major area could lead to problems down the road. Therefore it is important as a coach to do your homework. The extra time spent in selecting players will prevent many headaches down the road. Don't let the fact that you may put in the work to get a player only to have them go elsewhere. This is guaranteed to happen at some point. You will experience the thrill when you get the confirmation from a player that you have been wanting that they are going to sign and commit to your school.

Below are some key points to add to your checklist. You will also need to add your own individual characteristics that you look for in players. A simple checklist is a great way to separate the "maybe's" from the potential players that may be of benefit to your program.

Your Recruiting Checklist:

Are they are match player or just good in practice?

Are they a good student?

Attitude

Mature or still in partying mode?

Prone to injury?

Their current age?

Potential for improvement or have they peaked?

Experienced?

Self-supporting?

Are they a team player or an individual?

Possess good time management skills?

Punctual or habitual at being late?

Reliable

Good training and practice ethic?

Singles and doubles player in tennis?

Do they have four years of eligibility?

Are they committed to signing or entertaining several offers?

Current skill/stroke production?

What position will they play on your team?

Do they have the ability to gain a conference or national ranking?

Do they possess good footwork?

Are they fast?

Are they strong enough?

Mental toughness?

Consistency in results

Stable family background

Financial status

Will they continue to train over the holiday periods?

Ability to get a long with others?

Check references from previous coaches and team mates

Drug/alcohol issues?

Physical check-up needed prior to signing?

Will they live on or off campus?

What will they study?

Scholarship demands?

The key to building a champion team is to build a list of athletes that are willing to learn, practice hard and work with their team mates in order to achieve a common goal.

Take your time and do your homework on all of the athletes you recruit. This is especially true for college sports coaches where they will have the athlete there for four years.