Getting a sports scholarship can help you fund your education while continuing to play the sport you love. However, college coaches don’t always come looking for athletes—you have to take the initiative to reach out. If you’re wondering how to contact college coaches for sports scholarships, follow these steps to increase your chances of getting noticed.
Research the Right Colleges and Coaches
Before reaching out, identify colleges that align with your academic goals, athletic skills, and competition level. Consider factors like:
Results
#1. Which continent are you currently living in?
#2. What type of work are you most interested in?
#3. What is your highest completed level of education?
#4. What is your current employment status?
#5. What is your preferred work location?
#6. What is your gender?
- The team’s performance and division level (NCAA, NAIA, NJCAA).
- The coach’s recruiting needs for your position or event.
- The school’s scholarship opportunities and financial aid.
Most colleges have athletic websites where you can find contact details for the coaching staff.
Prepare a Strong Athletic Resume
Coaches receive numerous emails from athletes, so your resume should be clear and impressive. Include:
- Your full name, graduation year, and contact information.
- Height, weight, and position (if applicable).
- Key stats, personal bests, and achievements.
- Team and club experience.
- Academic details, including GPA and SAT/ACT scores.
Create a Highlight Video
A highlight video is one of the best ways to showcase your skills. Keep it short (3-5 minutes) and focus on your best plays or performances. Upload it to YouTube and include the link in your email.
Write a Professional and Personalized Email
Your email should be short, professional, and tailored to each coach. Avoid generic messages—coaches appreciate athletes who show genuine interest in their program. Here’s what to include:
- A subject line like: “Recruiting Inquiry – [Your Name, Sport, Graduation Year]”.
- A brief introduction with your name, high school, and position.
- A few sentences about your athletic achievements and why you’re interested in their program.
- Your highlight video link and athletic resume.
- Your contact information and availability for a call.
Follow Up If Necessary
🎓 Must Read
Coaches are busy, and they might not respond immediately. If you don’t hear back within two weeks, send a polite follow-up email or message. If a coach responds with interest, be ready to answer questions about your skills, academics, and training schedule.
Attend Camps and Showcases
College camps and showcase events are great opportunities to meet coaches in person. If a coach knows your name before the event, you have a better chance of standing out.
Be Persistent but Respectful
Not every coach will be interested, and that’s okay. Keep reaching out to multiple programs, improve your skills, and remain professional in your communication.
Final Thoughts
Contacting college coaches takes effort, but it’s an important step in securing a sports scholarship. Research the right programs, prepare a strong resume and video, and send well-crafted emails. With persistence and the right approach, you can increase your chances of getting recruited.
