Country Fire Volleyball

Get Recruited as a Non-Starter

How to Get Recruited as a Non-Starter

You don’t have to be a starter on your team to get recruited by college coaches. Many athletes are recruited without starting positions, as college coaches are looking for potential, work ethic, and the ability to develop into a standout player. Here are some actionable steps to help you get recruited even if you're not starting.

1. Focus on Developing Your Skills

Coaches are looking for athletes with potential, and the best way to show that potential is through your skills development. If you're not starting, it’s crucial to focus on your individual improvement both in and outside of practice.

  • Be Consistent: Practice consistently, whether it’s on your own or in extra sessions with your coach. Focus on the fundamental skills that coaches value most, including serving, passing, setting, attacking, and defense.

  • Work on Weaknesses: Identify areas of your game that need improvement and dedicate time to those skills. Coaches will notice if you are working to become a more well-rounded player.

  • Off-Season Training: Take advantage of summer camps and clinics like those offered at Country Fire Volleyball. These programs are excellent opportunities to sharpen your skills and gain additional training during the off-season.

Takeaway Tip: Even if you’re not starting, be the hardest worker in the gym and let your skills speak for themselves.

2. Maximize Your Time During Practice

If you're not starting, it’s critical to make the most of every minute during practice. Coaches will evaluate you based on how well you perform during practice—not just games.

  • Be Prepared and Focused: Always come to practice with a positive attitude and a readiness to learn. Coaches notice players who work hard, stay focused, and contribute to the team.

  • Help Your Teammates: Show leadership during drills, even if you’re not the one running them. Coaches appreciate athletes who help others stay engaged and give constructive feedback.

  • Show Your Ability to Adapt: Be versatile and willing to play different positions. Coaches value players who can adapt to various roles depending on the team’s needs.

Takeaway Tip: Coaches value players who are dedicated and adaptable, even if they're not starting. Be an asset during practice by showing leadership, hustle, and a willingness to learn.

3. Make Your Recruiting Video Stand Out

Even if you're not a starter, a well-made recruiting video is essential to showcase your skills. It allows coaches to see your potential, even if they haven’t had the chance to watch you play in a game.

  • Highlight Your Strengths: Focus on your top skills in the video. Whether it’s passing, serving, setting, or attacking, make sure your best qualities are highlighted.

  • Show Full Game Clips: Include footage from actual games, but make sure to highlight moments where you perform well, even if you're not the starter. Show how you contribute during your time on the court.

  • Emphasize Improvement: If your video is from earlier in the season, show your improvement and how you’ve grown as a player.

Takeaway Tip: Your video should not only show what you can do now but also demonstrate your growth and potential for future success.

4. Be Proactive and Reach Out to Coaches

It’s essential to take the initiative and reach out to coaches directly. Coaches won’t always find you, especially if you aren’t getting as much playing time as others. Proactive communication shows coaches that you’re serious about getting recruited and gives them the chance to evaluate you outside of game time.

  • Email Coaches: Send a personalized email to coaches of schools you're interested in. Include your recruiting video, a brief introduction, and a summary of your accomplishments and goals.

  • Follow Up: Don’t be discouraged if you don’t hear back right away. Following up shows persistence and dedication. Keep updating coaches on your progress and any new videos or highlights.

  • Attend Recruiting Events: Participate in camps, showcases, or tournaments where college coaches will be present. These events give you the opportunity to showcase your skills even if you aren’t starting.

Takeaway Tip: Don’t wait for coaches to come to you—take the initiative to reach out and keep coaches updated on your progress.

5. Focus on Academics

Academics matter. College coaches will recruit players who are not only talented athletes but also strong students. If you're a non-starter, good grades can make you more attractive to coaches, as they know that you’re a well-rounded, disciplined individual.

  • Maintain a High GPA: Keep your grades up and take challenging courses. Coaches are looking for athletes who can balance athletics with academic success.

  • Take Advantage of Scholarships: Academic scholarships can be a valuable part of your recruiting process, and they can make you more appealing to college programs.

Takeaway Tip: Solid academic performance can set you apart and make you a more attractive candidate for both athletic and academic scholarships.

6. Leverage Hudl to Get Noticed

In today’s digital world, Hudl is one of the best tools for getting noticed by college coaches. Hudl is a recruiting platform that allows athletes to create detailed highlight reels, track their progress, and get exposure to college programs.

  • Create a Hudl Profile: Sign up for a Hudl account to start building your profile. Upload your best game footage and make sure it’s well-organized and easily accessible for coaches.

  • Highlight Your Best Moments: Showcase your top plays—whether it’s passing, serving, attacking, or defense—so coaches can easily see what you bring to the court.

  • Update Regularly: Keep your Hudl profile updated with new footage and stats as your season progresses. Coaches use Hudl to monitor athlete development, so regular updates help keep you visible.

  • Share Your Hudl Link: Send the link to coaches and put it in your email signature so they can quickly view your highlights.

Takeaway Tip: Use Hudl to your advantage by keeping your profile updated with fresh video content and making it easy for coaches to find you.

7. Have the Right Mindset

Finally, attitude and mindset are key. Coaches look for players who show determination, perseverance, and a willingness to grow. Even if you’re not starting, it’s important to stay positive and committed.

  • Keep Pushing Forward: If you’re not starting, don’t get discouraged. Use it as motivation to work harder and show coaches you deserve to be on the court.

  • Stay Confident: Believe in your abilities and the progress you're making. Coaches are more likely to recruit players who show confidence and work hard to improve.

  • Embrace Your Role: Understand that every player has a role to play on the team. Whether you're starting or not, you can be a valuable contributor in different ways.

Takeaway Tip: Keep a positive, growth-focused mindset, and be ready to seize any opportunity that comes your way.

Final Thoughts

Getting recruited as a non-starter may seem challenging, but with dedication, hard work, and the right strategies, you can increase your chances of getting noticed by college coaches. Remember, it’s about showing your potential, making the most of every opportunity, and being proactive in the recruiting process.