how to write a college email to coaches

• Athlete Login
• College Coach Login
• Club and HS Coach Login

How to Email College Coaches

One of the most asked questions we get is how to email a college coach. Sending an introductory email to a college coach can get your foot in the door with a program you’re interested in. But here’s the thing: coaches receive a ton of emails from recruits – sometimes hundreds or even thousands. So, just sending an email isn’t enough to get noticed. 

To improve your chances of the coach opening and replying to your email, you’ll need to write a clear, personalized email with a subject line that catches their eye. We’ve gathered some useful resources, including examples and templates, to show you how. 

Quick Links

How to email a college coach.

Here’s a quick rundown on how to write an email to a college coach:  

• Craft a good subject line .
• Introduce yourself and the purpose of your email
• Make it personal
• Include notable athletic and academic stats
• Give an action item to the coach
• Be clear about your follow up plan
• Proofread for errors

Crafting a subject line for college recruiting emails

Before opening an email, college coaches want to know three things: who you are, where you’re from and how you can contribute to their program. When crafting a subject line for college recruiting emails, consider including one or more of the following:  

• Graduation year
• Sport position(s) or event(s)
• Location (city/state)
• A standout detail. For example, your lightning-fast 40-yard dash time, GPA or impressive ACT score. Got a video attached? Let them know. Coaches are more likely to open emails with video content . 

Hear it from the experts! Listen to NCSA Coaches Davide Harris, Britta Marmon and Josh Ruggles for three winning ways to make your subject line pop for coaches.  

Subject line examples for emailing college coaches

Here are some examples of well-crafted subject lines:

• 2026 Freestyle/Butterfly: Sophia Smith, 4.0 GPA, 32 ACT, 6’0” 
• David Martinez: LF Pitcher, 2025 Grad, 1.50 ERA, Phone: (555) 555-5555 
• 6’2” Quarterback, Class of 2027: Jake Swift, Dallas TX, See Highlights 
• Emily Taylor: 2025 Libero, Digging & Passing Skills, 30 ACT, Video 

You might end up sending several emails to coaches before they open one. Let them know if it’s a follow-up to a previous contact, or if you’re planning to visit campus soon. Just a quick note at the beginning will work:

• Follow Up: Joe Smith, 2026 WR, 4.3s 40-Yard Dash, 3.8 GPA, Video 
• Campus Visit 12/11: Olivia Johnson, 2027 Shot-Put and Discus, Skills Video 
• Taylor Brown – 2027 Shooting Guard @ NIKE Elite in Chicago July 9 

Insider Tip: Keep your subject line short and sweet, ideally between 50-75 characters. Coaches are usually on the move, frequently checking emails on their phones. Lengthy subject lines tend to get cut off. So, it’s important to maximize the space available.

What to say when emailing a college coach

Emailing a college coach can be a bit intimidating if you’re not sure what to say. In your initial email, it’s important to make a connection with the coach, express your interest in being recruited and provide concrete details so they can evaluate you as a potential recruit.  

See how Chelsea Thorpe, a D1 college volleyball player , used NCSA to send her first email to college coaches. Her journey and advice can serve as a valuable reference as you begin your own outreach to college coaches. Fun fact: Chelsea currently attends the very school she reached out to with this email! 

Example: Writing your introductory email

Writing an introductory email to college coaches becomes simpler when you break it down into three main parts: making the introduction, expressing your interest and strengths in the body copy and setting expectations for what comes next.  

• Introduction : Keep it brief, friendly and professional! Include the coach’s first or last name and key recruiting details: high school, location, graduation year and sports position/event.
• Body : Highlight what sets you apart – grades, skills, stats and any noteworthy extracurricular activities. Add a personal touch by discussing the school and program.
• Next Steps : Set the stage for future coach communications! Let the coach know when you’ll follow up and propose an action, like “I’d appreciate your feedback on my highlight video during our call.”

Don’t forget to attach or link any videos, schedules or documents you talked about. Also, consider sharing your current coaches’ contact information. College coaches often reach out to them first for more insights about you.

Here’s an example of an introductory email with each section labeled to help you write your own.  

Insider Tip: Make things easy for college coaches by including your NCSA Profile link in your email. It gives them quick access to all your recruiting details. No profile yet? No sweat. Create a profile today and make your recruiting emails stand out!

Template for emailing college coaches

It’s tempting to copy and paste when reaching out to multiple schools, but this decreases your chances of being noticed. To stand out, you need to personalize each email for the coach you’re contacting.  

Our introductory email template below can help you get started but remember that each email should be adjusted to fit that particular school. Use your judgment to decide what to include, add or exclude based on what’s relevant to your sport and the school.  

Subject Line: [Your Name] [Grad Year] [Position/Event] [1-2 Key Stats/Skills] [Video] 

Dear Coach [First/Last Name], 

I’m [Your Name], a [Year in School] at [High School] in [City, State], and I’m set to graduate in the class of [Graduation Year]. I [Play/Compete] in [Your Position/Event], and what makes me stand out as a potential recruit for your program is [List 2-3 standout skills/stats]. 

I’m really excited about your program because [Add 1-2 sentences about the research you did on the school, coach and/or sports program]. 

Some of my proudest academic and athletic accomplishments are [List 2-3 athletic/academic stats]. I have a [insert GPA and/or SAT/ACT test scores]. In the off season, I’m actively involved in [List extracurricular activities]. 

You can find my highlight video and recruiting materials on my NCSA profile at [Insert Link]. Can you please check out my video and let me know what you think? Your input on what I should work on to improve my chances of joining your program would be really helpful. 

I’ve also attached my upcoming schedule and I’d appreciate it if you could attend one of our games this season. [Add Attachment]. 

I will be calling you on [Date/Time] to further discuss my interest in [School Name]. I look forward to our conversation! 

Please feel free to contact my [High School/Club] coach, [Coach First/Last Name], at [Email and Phone Number] for more information.  

Thank you, 

[Your Name]  [Graduation Year] [Position/Event]   [NCSA Recruiting Profile Link]  

[Phone] [Email]  [Social Media Handle] 

Did you know? NCSA’s Messaging Center gives you direct access to message college coaches and easily organize all your conversations in one place. Explore this feature and more by upgrading your NCSA membership or signing into your profile . Don’t have a profile? Create one now!

How to start an email to a college coach

Your opening paragraph to a college coach, like your subject line, should be attention-grabbing and personalized. After the initial introduction, the first one or two sentences must be distinct for each coach email you send.  

Here are some examples on how to start your email to a college coach: 

“Dear Coach James,  

I wanted to connect with you after speaking with Amber Brown, an athlete on your team. She told me about your coaching style and I believe that, based on your emphasis on work ethic and training, I would be a great fit for your program.” 

“Hi Coach Smith,  

I’ve been following your program on social media and saw the news about your preseason number 1 ranking in the conference! Also, congratulations on being named on the Coach of the Year watch list. This has me really excited about the possibility of joining your program!” 

“Hi Coach Williams,  

While exploring your program, I noticed that you have five seniors graduating this year. I’m really excited about the opportunity to help fill the gap they’ll leave. I’m a versatile guard with strong dribbling skills and a sharp 3-point shot.” 

6 sample emails to college coaches

Below, you’ll find 6 sample emails from athletes to coaches. These examples will help give athletes a better understanding of the various recruiting topics they need to cover when writing emails to college coaches. 

• Introducing yourself to a coach with an emphasis on your athletic accomplishments and stats.  
• Introducing yourself to coach with an emphasis on your academic background. 
• This email will guide you on how to communicate your walk-on intentions to a coach. 
• Learn how to approach your email to set up a visit to their school to get a better feel for the program and campus life. 
• This email will provide guidance on how to invite a coach to watch you compete in a game or event. 
• This email covers the basics of following up with a coach after a camp invite, ensuring you stay on their radar and maintain communication . 

Insider Tip: Need to track down college coach email addresses? NCSA makes it easy to find contact information for coaches and gather your college coach email list across all division levels. Check out our tutorial video on using NCSA Message Center to streamline the process of reaching out to coaches—making it hassle-free! 

Get started with a free recruiting a profile and start emailing coaches today!

The best time to email college coaches

Our data show that it’s best to send an email to college coaches 4-8 p.m., Tuesday-Sunday. But the truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Coaches have their own preferences, and it mainly depends on their season or the NCAA recruiting calendar .  

Keep these three tips in mind when emailing college coaches: 

• Is it season? Coaches are busiest during their sport’s season, so be aware of their game schedule when emailing. 
• Know practice times. Ask coaches what time they practice during the week so you have a better idea of when they will be available to read your email. 
• How late is too late? While email timing isn’t as critical as phone calls or texts, try to avoid sending them after midnight. Even though they’ll most likely check it in the morning, email timestamps can make them wonder why you’re up at odd hours. 

Insider tip : Turn on your “read receipt” function on in NCSA Message Center to see if a coach has opened your email. This feature is helpful for athletes who are too young to be contacted by a coach yet. Read receipts will let you know if a coach has opened your email, so you can follow up accordingly.

sending film to college coaches

For your first outreach, follow the guidelines mentioned earlier on this page about including your video attachment or link in the introductory email. If you’ve already been in contact with the staff and are sending an updated video, send a brief email explaining the update or what to look for. You can also provide a schedule of upcoming events for them to watch you in action. 

Watch this video for a step-by-step guide on how to upload your highlight video to your NCSA Recruiting Profile.

The right person to send your video to varies by program and division. Research the program to identify position-specific coaches or a recruiting coordinator and include them in your email, along with the head coach.  

Read more :  How to get coaches to view your highlight video

3 things to do before emailing a college coach

Feeling ready to send an email to a college coach? Great! However, there are some steps to take before you hit send. A well-crafted introductory email can get you noticed, but it’s equally important to be prepared for a coach’s research or response. Here are three pre-email actions: 

• Review your social media: Coaches will check your social media. Quickly check your accounts to ensure there’s nothing that might be offensive. Check out our social media guide for college recruiting.  
• Update your highlight video. Including video in your introductory email is a great way to get a coach’s evaluation of your athletic skills. Make sure your video is up to date! Tips for creating a strong highlight video.  
• Talk to your current coaches. It’s a good idea to let your current coaches know which schools you’re reaching out to. This way, they can prepare to discuss your coachability, academics, and athletic abilities. Want to know more about being a coachable athlete?  

Key takeaways for emailing college coaches

Throughout this page, we’ve stressed the importance of emails in the college recruiting process, explained what coaches are searching for and given you valuable resources and tools to help you create these messages.  

NCSA Basketball Recruiting Coach, Ben Wright, shares his three key takeaways for student-athletes to keep in mind when emailing college coaches: be well-prepared, maintain professionalism and add a personal touch. By following these guidelines, you’ll be on your way to creating emails that truly stand out and make a positive impression on college coaches. 

Sending a solid email to a college coach is just the start of your journey. Ready for what’s next? Create your free profile with NCSA today and open the door to exciting opportunities for your future in sports.

Can college coaches respond to your email?

NCAA D1 and D2 college coaches can respond to your email on or after June 15 or September 1 of your junior year in high school. The exact date depends on your sport . There are no email restrictions for D3 coaches.  

However, this doesn’t stop you from sending an email before then. In fact, we recommend it if you feel confident about competing there. In these cases, college coaches may reach out to a recruit’s high school or club coach to schedule a time for the athlete to call. So, it’s always a good idea to loop in your current coach to see how they can help you get recruited.  

Should you email a coach that follows or views your NCSA profile?

Yes! You should email a college coach who follows or views your NCSA profile. It’s a positive sign of their interest in you and a chance to express your interest, share more about yourself and start building a relationship. 

Who should you email, the head coach or assistant coach?

You’ll need to do some research on the school to know who to email first. NCAA D1 schools often have recruiting coordinators who handle the initial evaluation of recruits. For other division levels, we recommend starting with the head coach.

Once you’ve made that initial connection, keep the conversation going with the specific coach you’ve been in touch with. This approach ensures you’re reaching out to the right people during the recruiting process. 

What if a coach doesn’t respond to your email?

Be patient. Coaches are busy and it may take them a couple of weeks to respond. If you haven’t heard back in this time frame, think about sending a follow-up email or reach out to your high school or club coach to assist with the introduction. If you’re an underclassman, keep in mind coaches can’t respond to you just yet.

Insider Tip: Download the NCSA app in the App Store  or on  Google Play to email coaches, get notifications, get coach contact info, create and manage custom email templates.

• Instagram link
• TikTok link
• Facebook link
• All in Award
• Press and Media

More Resources

• NCAA Eligibility
• NCAA Recruiting Rules
• How to Get Recruited
• Managing Your Recruiting
• Emailing Coaches
• Recruiting Guide for Parents

Mobile Apps

IMG Academy+

Mental Performance & Nutrition

Athletic Recruiting

Popular Links

• Football Camps
• NCAA Recruiting Calendars
• NCSA Commitments
• NCSA Recruiting Workshops

Questions? Reach out to us at [email protected] or visit our Help Desk

June 10, 2019

College Coach Email Samples & Templates

Using a great sample email to a college coach is important because emailing college coaches is a vital component of the college recruiting process. Coaches receive thousands of emails every year and because of this it is important to email coaches in a way that will help you to stand out and get a response. In a survey of NCAA coaches, 98% of respondents listed ‘Personal Emails’ as a preferred method of communication. College coaches have a limited amount of time to spend reading and responding to emails. They will go through their inbox and quickly determine which emails are worth their time.

When you are emailing college coaches, write an email that you would like to receive yourself. If you don’t put any time into writing your email, don’t expect a college coach to put any time into reading it. Writing a high-quality, personalized email to each college coach is more labor-intensive than copy and pasting the same email to a ton of coaches. However, the extra time and effort that you spend when emailing college coaches will enable you to start productive conversations with the coaches at your Best Fit schools (try our search & filter tool for free  to find your best fit schools). Below is a sample email to a college coach to send when first reaching out.

Sample Email To College Coach: Introduction Email Template

For the following email examples, Zlatan Ibrahimović, a 2020 soccer recruit, will be emailing Coach Smith, Head Men’s Soccer Coach at AM University in Pennsylvania. Zlatan already has a highlight video and Student Athlete Résumé , so he wants to introduce himself to Coach Smith and inform him of his interest in AM University. Let’s take a look at Zlatan’s well-written email:

Subject Line: Zlatan Ibrahimović | Forward | Class of 2020

Dear Coach Smith,

My name is Zlatan Ibrahimović and I am a 2020 Forward from Los Angeles, California. I play for the LA Galaxy Academy and attend LA Public School.

I am reaching out to let you know of my interest in AM University and your program. Congratulations on making the NCAA tournament again last year and winning the Atlantic Conference for the second straight year. I watched a few of your games last season via Live Stream and really liked your system and style of play.

I have family on the east coast, so AM’s location really appeals to me. Also, I enjoy Math/Science and would love to know more about your highly ranked Engineering Program.

Please take a look at my short highlight video and let me know if you think I would be a good fit for your team: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4faVkCbRG8

I have attached my Student Athlete Résumé to this email and I have filled out your Recruiting Questionnaire. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Zlatan Ibrahimović 2020, Forward Los Angeles, CA 823-999-9999

Zlatan’s email is excellent because:

• He made his Grad year and position very clear in the subject line and first sentence of the email.
• He did his research on AM University and told Coach Smith about his own program. He showed his interest by pointing out AM’s Engineering program, noting the soccer program’s recent success, and mentioning that he watched the team via Live Stream.
• He included his highlight video link and attached his Student-Athlete Resume to the email so that Coach Smith can quickly reference his athletic/academic info.
• He put his cell number, city, state, grad year, and position in the email signature.
• The email does not take longer than 30 seconds to read but yet still has all the necessary information.
• The tone of the email is formal, yet conversational.

If Zlatan does not hear back from the coach within 7-10 days, he can follow up with another email, such as the one below.

Sample Email To College Coach: Follow-up Email

Here is a good example of a follow up email that Zlatan can send to Coach Smith if he does not hear back from him after the first email:

Subject Line: Follow up – Zlatan Ibrahimović

Hi Coach Smith,

I hope you’ve been doing well. I just wanted to follow up on the email that I sent you last week. Did you have a chance to watch my highlight video? If not, here is the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4faVkCbNG8&t=181s

I would really appreciate your feedback as AM University is one of my top schools. I have attached my Student-Athlete Résumé to this email and I have filled out your Recruiting Questionnaire. Please let me know if I can get you any more information.

Zlatan Ibrahimović 823-999-9999

This sample email to the college coach is much shorter than the first but it serves the purpose of:

• Reminding Coach Smith to watch Zlatan’s highlight video
• Reiterating that Zlatan is very interested in AM University and would like feedback on the next steps of AM’s recruiting process.
• Displaying that Zlatan is capable of writing a professional email and cares enough to follow up after not hearing back.

Just like in the previous sample email, Zlatan can follow up with the coach if he does not hear back in 7-10 days. These two email templates or examples will assist you in emailing college coaches in a personalized and professional manner which will help you stand out from the crowd and begin the recruiting journey with the schools on your targeted list.

Create a Free Profile today  to begin your journey to your best fit college, or try our search & filter tool for free.

• Join Prospect List

College Sports Recruiting: A Complete Guide For Emailing a College Coach

Writing Emails To College Coaches

The recruitment process into college sports is a long and intentional one that requires you to reach out to coaches early, make the initial contact, and stay in touch throughout the recruiting process. If you're a student-athlete looking to play collegiate sports, you've probably been told that contacting college coaches is a must. 

• How do I contact a college coach?
• What do I say when I make contact with a college coach?
• Are there rules—dos and don'ts—when contacting college coaches?
• How many emails will I have to send before I become a college recruit?
• What are the key factors that affect my chances of success after contact? 

Rest assured; we'll be answering these questions and offer you a detailed guide on how to email college coaches for recruitment.

How It All Begins…

It might interest you to know that the college recruiting process is first initiated by the student player, not the college coach. Here is the recruiting process for college coaches and it consists of five simple steps: 

Step 1: Coaches compile a list of prospective athletes.

Step 2: Coaches distribute ID camp invitations, athlete questionnaires, and recruiting letters to those student-athletes.

Step 3: Coaches conduct one-on-one athlete evaluations.

Step 4: Coaches confirm any verbal offers, commitments, or scholarship to the recruit.

Step 5:Coaches look to recruit top athletes to better their team and overall program. 

And that's it! Even so, the young athlete has a significant role to play when determining whether or not they make it to the signing stage in the recruitment process.

What Recruiting Really Means

College recruitment is simply a process whereby a college representative, usually a college coach, identifies, assesses, and offers a student-player the chance to play sports for the college they represent. It's extremely important to understand how college recruiting process if you are an aspiring college athlete so that you can master the do's and don'ts of college recruiting .

Why Emailing a College Coach Is Important

“Do I really need to email a college coach?”

Yes, we advise that you do. As mentioned earlier, the majority of the time, players are the ones who initiate the college recruiting process.

The collegiate recruitment process varies across different levels and organizations, and contacting a college coach may move you forward in the recruitment process.

EXACT has contacted several D1, D2, and D3 college coaches for feedback on the recruitment processes. In our years of interaction with these professionals, we've learned that the best way to make first contact with a college coach is by emailing them. You can then send follow-up emails and/or make phone calls once you establish a rapport with that college coach. 

When Should You Start Emailing College Coaches?

Right away! The college selection process is not a quick process or one that should be rushed. So the earlier you set out, the better.

The recruiting calendar may differ from sport to sport and most NCAA Division I and Division II sports do not permit coach-to-player contact until June 15, after their sophomore year of high school. However, the rule binds college coaches, not student-players. It's never too early for a student-athlete to contact a coach. In fact, the earlier you make contact, the better, which is why being proactive and sending a compelling email is very important.

It is recommended that a typical highschool athlete begin the college research process by their junior year, which is around the time when SAT and ACT tests begin. If you're looking to play sports in college, your best bet is to make contact with coaches during your sophomore year in high school or by junior year at the latest. DI schools are on the lookout for younger players and often recruit players as soon as it's legal; in the ninth grade of high school.

Can I Contact College Coaches On Social Media?

No, not at all! Sending a text message or contacting a college coach on social media is not advisable. It is unofficial, unprofessional, and should be avoided. Stick to emails, phones calls, and in-person/virtual meetings.

What To Email A College Coach

When writing an email to a college coach, you want to put your best foot forward and make a strong impression. Here's a complete guide to crafting emails that college coaches actually read .

The Subject Line

Craft an excellent subject line. You're an athlete, not a writer—we get that. But remember, the subject line is what the coach sees first and determines whether or not your email gets opened in the first place. Your skills on the field or court might never be seen by your desired college if you don't take that extra moment to fine-tune your subject line.

Your subject line should be informative and direct to avoid any confusion. Be sure to include the following in your headline:

• Your full name
• Your graduating class year
• Your athletic position(s)

You may also add in an intriguing fact about yourself. What you add in may vary depending on what college you're applying for and what piques the coach's interest.

Adding in your city and state, though optional, is also a good idea.

Subject Line Tips

• Make your subject line informative as well as intriguing.
• Avoid using generic subject lines; they are unlikely to catch the coach's attention.
• Limit your subject line to 50 characters or less. Keep it short and sweet!
• A college coach may choose to leave a message unopened just like you sometimes leave some emails unopened for days, weeks, or even months because they don't interest you. So, help the coach know what the message is about by writing a compelling subject line.

Subject Line Examples

Football (in an academic-focused college): Steve Crane 2023 Grad 3.8 GPA 1400 SAT Highlight Video Included

Baseball (Pitcher): Steve Crane 2026 Grad 5'9'' 172lbs 6.75 60-yard dash Skill Video Included"

Basketball: Steve Crane 2022 Grad 6'4'' References Included

Show That You Did Your Research

This could make a great impression—showing your coach that you're truly interested in the program and have carried out adequate research. In a sentence or two, mention a recent fact or statistics about the team and express how that relates to you and/or your application.

“I recently read an article on collegiate sports and academic performance and saw that your program had the best overall performance in both sports and academics. I'm delighted to see other players who are dedicated to all-round excellence, as I'm dedicated to bettering my game and excelling in academics.”

Quick Tip: Make it short and ensure that what you're saying is true and from a credible source.

Introduce Yourself

A key function of the email is to introduce yourself—this way the coach can get to know you. Put out that valuable info that every college coach wants to know. Express concisely who you are and why you're sending the email.

Information to include:

• General Bio : Full Name, graduation year, club name and/or high school and location
• Academics : Test scores, GPA. 
• Athletics : Player stats, notable wins/ titles, highlight and/or skills reel
• Contact Information : Your contact information and your highschool/club coach's contact

Invite the College Coach to Come See You in Action

Remember, you're sending the email hoping to become a signed athlete at college, not merely to introduce yourself. So, give a strong call to action. Let the coach know your upcoming game schedule and where they can watch you play first-hand. This could be at one of your games and/or an ID camp.

You may also include a link to a video of yourself in action during a game. This should preferably be a snippet from a game, say 10-15 seconds, as most coaches don't have the time to watch an entire game so be sure to only show your best. 

Personalize Each Email

Be sure to do your research ahead of time so that you can demonstrate your knowledge throughout the email that you send. Above all, your email should reflect your interest and desire to be a part of the college program.

Include the Contact Information of Your Club/Highschool Coach

When it comes to collegiate sports recruitment, there are rules governing how coaches can interact with student-players. NCAA recruiting rules prohibit college coaches from communicating with athletes or their parents/guardians until June 15, after their sophomore year, or September 1, of their junior year, depending on the sport. However, coaches can communicate among themselves. This means that though a college coach may be unable to communicate with you on recruitment, they can at least reach out to your highschool and/or club coach. 

Avoid Saying Too Much                                                 

It's an email, not a biography. Give the important information that might pique the college coach's interest and prompt them to watch you play at an upcoming game and/or ID Camp. Don't get caught up in the personal achievement lists. The purpose of the email is to establish rapport and secure you a chance for a follow-up.

Do In-Depth Research

Before you dash off to download a list of all women's soccer coaches from the NCAA website, take some time to do quality research. There are numerous programs, many of which are not a good fit for you. So, before you set out and start emailing college coaches, Answer these important questions:

• Is college tuition financially feasible for you and your family?
• What's the program's history: awards, championships, winning percentages, etc.?
• What’s the campus culture like?
• Does the school offer a major that interests you?
• How many players in your position are already on the team?

Doing adequate research is especially important because while sports will be a key part of your college experience, it is only a part of it. Academics, college culture, and extracurricular activities are all key factors to consider when making your decision.

Use A Dedicated Email Address

Writing an email to your coach is an official thing. Don't use a casual email address. Your email address should be your full name followed by your graduation year, for example, [email protected] or [email protected].

Avoid using comical and playful email addresses, such as [email protected] or [email protected]. Non-professional email addresses do not depict your love for the game. On the contrary, they create the impression that you're immature and unserious, which is enough reason to have your email sent to spam.

Do A Proper Grammar Check

This is not an email you type quickly on-the-go and simply hit send without reviewing. Use efficient writing tools to proofread and edit your email. It's also great to get a second opinion from your teacher, parent, or friend with experience..

After sending the first email in which you introduce yourself to the college coach and express your interest, you still have a lot more communication to do. It's not time to sit back and watch it all unfold. If you sit back, you'll likely see nothing unfold.

Your follow-up email is just as important as the introductory email. As a rule of thumb, once you initiate contact with a college coach, don't stop communication until you're expressly told that there's no space for you on the team. Is this to say, spam the coach with numerous repetitive emails? No, but an email once a month isn't going overboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can college coaches respond to emails.

College coaches may respond to emails when they are interested in a player and are not prohibited from doing so by the NCAA rules. However, note that oftentimes, college coaches do not respond to emails from prospects, not because they are not interested in the student-athletes, but because there are regulations guiding the interactions of coaches and students that they must not violate.

When Is the Best Time to Email College Coaches?

There's no single best answer as to when to send an email to college coaches. But, here are some key factors to consider.

The General Rule

A basic rule is to avoid sending emails late at night or in the wee hours of the morning. That is, don't send emails between 11:00pm and 6:00am in the college coach's respective time zone. And of course, if you have established a rapport via phone calls, you can not call during this time period either.

Season or Not

Sending an email to a coach in-season is often not the best idea. In the season, coaches are busy with games and practice, and their focus is to help the team play their best. This is not to say you can not send an email in season-just take their game schedule into account.

Practice Time

A college coach will surely not skip practice to read a bunch of emails. So having an idea of when practice is will help you in deciding the best time to send your email.

We suggest that you send emails to college coaches between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. That way, they can view it before practice or later at night.

How Long Does it Take for a College Coach to Respond to an Email?

On average, it takes about two weeks to get a response from a college coach when you're on their priority list. However, a coach may respond later or sooner depending on their personal and/or professional schedules.

What Does it Mean If I Don't Get a Response from the College Coach?

College coaches often get hundreds of emails weekly. So, it'll take more than a single email to be noticed by a coach. However, if even after sending multiple emails, you don't get a response, it doesn't necessarily mean the coach isn't interested in you. NCAA rules may dictate they can’t reach out to you. This is why you should include your high school and/or club coach's contact information when sending an email to a college coach so they can communicate with one another. 

Bottom Line

Sending an email to college coaches is the first step in securing a position in collegiate sports. So, be deliberate about doing it right.

Keep in mind that beyond the email you send, college coaches want to see you play. At EXACT College ID camps, we offer you the opportunity of meeting thousands of college coaches from across the country where you can make impactful connections, receive college-style training and receive one-on-one college evaluations. Be college recruit ready and request your invitation to an upcoming EXACT College ID Camp .

I hope you enjoy reading this content!

Looking to play college sports or have a question?

College Sports Recruiting

How to email a college coach: advice from experts.

Knowing how to email college coaches can make all the difference in getting their attention and standing out from the crowd. In this article, we will explore the dos and don'ts of emailing a college coach.

Lars Blenckers

Why You Need To Learn How To Email A College Coach

Learning how to email a college coach is a vital step in the sports recruitment process for aspiring student-athletes. But why is emailing college coaches important?

It's more than just a formality; it's an opportunity to make a lasting impression and showcase your potential. This guide provides a comprehensive look at how to approach this critical task, from understanding the coach and program to crafting an email that resonates, all the way to following up.

Key Takeaways

• Research the Coach and Program : Understand the coach's background, the program's achievements, and the team's needs to tailor your email effectively.
• Craft an Engaging Email : Personalize your email with a proper greeting, brief introduction, genuine interest, and highlights of your accomplishments.
• Avoid Common Mistakes : Steer clear of generic templates, exaggeration, unprofessional content, and ensure proper spelling and grammar.
• Follow Up with the Coach : Allow sufficient time for a response, be proactive without being pushy, and provide notable updates if necessary.

By following these guidelines, you can create a compelling email that not only grabs the coach's attention but also sets the stage for a successful recruitment process.

Researching the Coach and Program

Before you start writing your email, it is important to do thorough research on the coach and the program you are interested in. Understanding the coach's coaching style, team dynamics, and the program's overall philosophy will help you tailor your email and demonstrate your genuine interest. Here are a few key points to consider:

• Familiarize yourself with the coach's background: Take the time to learn about the coach's experience, coaching philosophy, and their success within the program. This information can be found on the college's athletic website, social media platforms, or through online research. ‍
• Research the program's recent achievements: Stay up to date with the program's recent successes, such as conference championships, individual accolades, or notable tournament performances. This knowledge will show the coach that you are genuinely interested and invested in their program. ‍
• Understand the program's needs: Pay attention to the team's roster and identify any gaps or areas where your skills and abilities could contribute. Demonstrating an understanding of how you can fit into the team's existing dynamics will make your email more impactful.

Crafting an Engaging Email To College Coaches

Once you have gathered all the necessary information, it's time to craft an engaging email that will capture the coach's attention. Here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

• Start with a personalized greeting : Address the coach by their name rather than using a generic salutation. This shows that you have taken the time to research and personalize your email. ‍
• Introduce yourself briefly : Provide a brief introduction that includes your name, grade level, position, and relevant achievements. Keep this section concise and to the point. ‍
• Express genuine interest : Clearly state your interest in the coach's program and explain why you believe it is a good fit for you. Highlight specific aspects of the program that appeal to you, such as the team culture, academic opportunities, or the sports facilities. ‍
• Highlight your accomplishments : Share your athletic achievements, academic honors, and any leadership roles you have held. Be sure to emphasize how these accomplishments demonstrate your dedication and potential to contribute to the team's success. ‍
• Include your athletic profile or highlight video: Attach a link to your athletic profile or include a brief highlight video to showcase your skills and abilities. This visual representation of your talent can greatly enhance the impact of your email.

Don'ts :

• Use generic templates : Avoid using generic templates or copy-pasting the same email to multiple coaches. Personalization and genuine interest are key to standing out. ‍
• Be vague or overly formal : Be clear and concise in your email, avoiding jargon or excessively formal language. Coaches appreciate direct and genuine communication. ‍
• Exaggerate or misrepresent yourself: While it's important to highlight your strengths, be honest and truthful about your abilities and accomplishments. Misrepresenting yourself could lead to disappointment down the line.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

When emailing a college coach, there are several common mistakes to avoid. These mistakes can hinder your chances of making a positive impression. Keep the following points in mind:

• Spelling and grammar errors: Always proofread your email to ensure it is free of spelling and grammar mistakes. These errors can make you appear careless and unprofessional. Use a tool like Grammarly for example to fix any errors. ‍
• Sending unprofessional content : Avoid using slang, inappropriate language, or sharing irrelevant personal information. Your email should be focused on expressing your genuine interest in the program. ‍
• Neglecting to include contact information: Make sure to include your contact information, such as your phone number and email address, in your email signature. This will make it easier for the coach to reach out to you.

Following Up with the Coach

After sending your initial email, it is important to follow up with the coach. Here are a few tips for following up effectively:

• Allow sufficient time: Give the coach a reasonable amount of time to respond to your initial email before sending a follow-up message. Coaches receive numerous emails and may take some time to review and respond to each one. ‍
• Be proactive, but not pushy : Sending a follow-up email demonstrates your continued interest. However, avoid being pushy or demanding a response. Maintain a polite and respectful tone in all your communications. ‍
• Provide notable updates: If you have any significant achievements or developments, such as new athletic accomplishments or improved academic performance, consider updating the coach in your follow-up email. This demonstrates your commitment to self-improvement and dedication to the sport.

FAQ Section

Q: What should I include in my email to a college coach? ‍ A: Your email should include a personalized greeting, a brief introduction, genuine interest in the program, highlights of your accomplishments, and your athletic profile or highlight video. Avoid generic templates, exaggeration, and unprofessional content.

Q: How can I research the coach and program? ‍ A: Familiarize yourself with the coach's background, the program's recent achievements, and the team's needs by exploring the college's athletic website, social media platforms, and online research.

Q: How should I follow up with the coach after sending the email? ‍ A: Allow sufficient time for a response, be proactive without being pushy, and consider providing notable updates in your follow-up email. Maintain a polite and respectful tone.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when emailing a college coach? ‍ A: Common mistakes include spelling and grammar errors, sending unprofessional content, neglecting to include contact information, and misrepresenting yourself.

Q: Why is personalizing the email important? ‍ A: Personalizing the email shows that you have taken the time to research the coach and the program, demonstrating your genuine interest. It helps you stand out from other generic emails and creates a more positive impression.

Q: Can I use the same email for multiple coaches? ‍ A: It's best to avoid using the same email for multiple coaches. Tailoring each email to the specific coach and program shows your genuine interest and can make your email more impactful.

By following these guidelines and avoiding common mistakes, you can craft an effective email that resonates with college coaches and opens doors to exciting opportunities in collegiate athletics.

more from our blog

Get in touch 👇 ‍

Do you want to know if you can play college sports in the USA? We want to get to know you first so we can create the right game plan with you. ‍ ‍ Get a free consultation. No obligations. ‍

Read why others chose us.

How To Effectively Email College Coaches + Examples

How to Email a College Coach:

One of the best methods to introduce yourself to a college coach is by email. However, speaking with a coach you've never spoken to can be scary, and the issue is that many student-athletes find it difficult to know what to say to college coaches. In order to give you more confidence when emailing college coaches, we have put together a few resources, including examples and templates.

The Subject Line

The subject line of an email is crucial because it is often the first thing that recipients will see. Some coaches won't even open your email without a compelling subject line. College coaches are interested in three things before reading an email: your identity, your location, and how you might better their program.

What to include in Subject line:

Height/Weight

Graduation Year (Class)

Position (s)

Location (City, State)

Example : " John Adams, 2024 QB, 6'4" 210lbs | Atlanta, GA"

What to Include In Your Email:

It's now time to write the email! The aim when emailing college coaches is to respectfully introduce yourself, your accomplishments, and your desire to be recruited.

Use the first few sentences to respectfully introduce yourself to coaches, include your name where you are from and a bit about yourself. Try to avoid just sending blank emails with film attached, remember coaches are humans just like you and appreciate thoughtful and respectful athletes.

Things to include

Your general information: Name, graduation year, location, high school and club name

Academics: GPA, test scores, if they would be important information for the coach you’re emailing.

Athletics: Sport specific stats and relevant measurable.

Contact information: your phone number and email, as well as the contact information for your high school, or club coaches

Email Examples:

Hello Coach Mark

My name is John Adams, I'm a senior QB for Martin High School located in Atlanta Georgia . I wanted to reach out and introduce myself to your program. This is my second year on the varsity team and first year as our team captain -- Something I take a lot of pride in. Outside of the field I am a member of the National Honors Society and hold a 3.7 GPA and scored 27 on my ACT. I also run track and participate in the debate club. I've been paying attention to your program for some time now and would like to get some feedback and would love potentially joining your program. [Attach Film/Highlights]

I appreciate your time, looking forward to hearing back from you.

Here is how to contact me, my parents or coaches. John Adams Phone: 333-333-3321

Email: [email protected]

Mothers Contact: Martha Adams

Phone: 333-333-3231

Head Coach: Cooper Jones

Phone: 333-332-2132

Email: [email protected]

Let Us Send Your Email, Profile & Film To EVERY College Coach In The Nation For You!

• High Schools
• Students & Families
• What is CARE®

Level Up Your Recruiting Game: The Ultimate Guide to Emailing College Coaches

Updated on Aug 8, 2023

One of the most common first steps in the recruiting process is to send an introductory email to a prospective college coach. Emailing coaches helps to build recognition of your name and jumpstarts a conversation with a coach about how you would fit on their team and at their school.

Discover the best practices and strategies for creating an effective college coach recruiting email with Honest Game’s guidance.

When to Email a College Coach

Don’t wait for coaches to contact you; take the initiative during your sophomore year to create a starter list of potential colleges . It’s best to divide this into two lists: start with a list of schools where there is a possibility of competing, and create another list of schools where athletics are unlikely but the college or school still appeals to you.

Once the starter list of schools has been organized, you should fill out online questionnaires on college team sites (similar to those on the University of Connecticut prospective student-athlete site ). After submitting an online questionnaire, you should email each college coach directly.

Recruits should not be discouraged if they don’t receive an immediate response or a direct phone call from coaches. Coaches receive hundreds of emails from recruits each year and when a coach is allowed to make direct contact depends on a student-athlete’s sport, age, and division level.

To help make sense of the often confusing calendars, Honest Game has outlined the general recruiting calendar terms and timelines to help student-athletes and their families understand what to expect as they begin the recruiting process.

Honest Insight : Student-athletes should follow up on their introductory emails with a phone call once their sport’s contact period begins.

Where to Find College Coaches’ Contact Info

During the recruiting process, the crucial first step is figuring out how to find college coaches’ emails and the best way is to begin with a quick Google search. Most schools will list their athletic staff directory, along with their contact information on the team website. You may also find additional information on the team’s roster page. The coaching staff profiles will likely be listed at the bottom of the player roster page, where you can find the coach’s bio, job title, and contact information.

Honest Insight : In order to prevent being flooded with thousands of emails from potential recruits, Head Coaches at major programs probably won’t have their email listed publicly online. If this is the case, you can email the Director of Recruiting or one of the Assistant Coaches to introduce yourself.

The Anatomy of a Winning Recruiting Email

If you’re a high school student-athlete looking to play sports in college, you know how important it is to make a good impression on college coaches. One way to do that is by sending a well-crafted recruiting email. But what should you include in your email to make it stand out and catch their attention? Keep reading for a breakdown of the key sections of a recruiting email, with examples to help you craft your own winning message.

Greeting and Introduction : Start your email with a polite greeting, such as “Dear Coach [Last Name]” and a brief introduction that includes your name, high school, graduation year, and the sport you play. Keep it short and to the point, similar to:

Dear Coach Johnson,

My name is Sarah Smith, and I’m a senior at Franklin High School. I’m a middle blocker on our varsity volleyball team and I’m interested in playing volleyball at the collegiate level.

Show Your Interest : Next, show the coach that you have done your homework and are genuinely interested in their program. Mention specific reasons about why you are interested in their school and program, and what you like about their coaching style. You can also highlight any connections you may have to the program, such as a former teammate or coach. Here’s an example:

I was impressed by the success of your program, especially your recent conference championship win. I also have a former teammate who now plays for your team, and they’ve told me great things about the program and the coaching staff.

Highlight Your Athletic Stats and Achievements : This is where you can really showcase your athletic ability. Mention your position, height/weight, relevant stats, awards, and any other accomplishments that make you stand out as a player. You should also include a link to your athletic profile or highlight reel.

As a middle blocker, I’m 6’2″ and weigh 170 pounds. Last season, I had 200 kills, 80 blocks, and a hitting percentage of .400. Last year, I was named First Team All-Conference and I was also named the team’s Most Valuable Player. You can see some of my highlights on my Hudl profile: [insert link].

Emphasize Your Academic Stats and Honors : Academics are just as important as athletics when it comes to college recruiting, so be sure to mention your GPA, class rank, and any honors or AP courses you have taken.

Coaches value athletes who excel both on and off the field, so emphasize your academic dedication and commitment. Be sure to attach a copy of your most recent Honest Game CARE® eligibility report.

Here’s an example: In addition to my athletic accomplishments, I have a 4.0 GPA and am ranked first in my class. I’ve taken several honors and AP courses and plan to major in biology in college. I’ve attached my Honest Game CARE® eligibility report which shows that I am a full qualifier for initial eligibility for NCAA DI.

Email Closing and Next Steps : In the closing paragraph, it’s important to thank the coach for their time and consideration, and be sure to provide your phone number, as well as the contact information for your current coaches that can serve as a reference, and invite them to learn more about you by watching your highlight reel or attending upcoming competition schedule (high school season, club season, and future recruiting camps/showcases). An example includes:

Thank you for taking the time to read my email and for consideration of the [School’s name] program. I’ve attached my upcoming competition schedule if you will be attending the [insert the name of the showcase, camp or clinic]. I have also included the contact information of my coach’s contact info who can provide references:

Coach [Coach’s Full Name] Phone Number: [Coach’s Phone Number] Email Address: [Coach’s Email Address]

Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] if you are interested in speaking more.

Sincerely, [Your Full Name]

The Importance of Proofreading Your Recruiting Email

When you send an email to a potential college coach, it’s important to check for mistakes before hitting send! This means reading your email carefully to make sure everything makes sense and there are no spelling or grammar errors. By proofreading your email, you show the coach that you care about doing things right and that you’re a careful person who pays attention to details.

Honest Game Insight : Still not sure if the email is error-free? Have your parents, coach, or counselor double-check the email.

Be Prepared for Follow Up

Preparation is crucial when reaching out to college coaches. In “ How to Leverage Your Academics When Communicating with Coaches ,” we provide essential tips for success. Having well-organized recruiting materials and understanding coach expectations can greatly enhance your chances. For further guidance, Honest Game’s blog post, “ How to Talk with College Coaches ,” offers valuable insights on presenting your best self to potential schools and their coaching staff. Don’t miss out on leveraging your academics for athletic success.

Ready to take your recruiting game to the next level? Schedule a virtual counseling session with our Honest Game experts today and get personalized guidance on navigating the college coach email process and maximizing your chances of success. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to gain a competitive edge. Book your session now !

Related Posts

GET RECRUITED & FIND A SCHOLARSHIP

Contact college coaches.

Sample Email to College Coaches

Email has become the preferred method for introducing yourself to college coaches. Just having talent, playing for a travel team and attending showcases does not guarantee you will get discovered. Using email and some hard work, you can ensure college coaches know who you are and how to contact you.

The recruiting process is starting earlier than ever. In an effort to lock up the most talented recruits, the top colleges are recruiting and offering scholarships to athletes in the 8th and 9th grade. NCAA rules prohibit coaches from initiating contact with a recruit before their junior year of high school, but, they can talk to you if you if you contact them first.

Email is just an introduction

The email you send to a coach should serve as just an introduction. You want to show the coach you have researched their program, have the potential to be a college athlete and a give them a schedule of where they can watch you.

Guidelines for Emailing Coaches

Personalize each email – If you don’t take the time to personalize the email to the coach, they won’t take the time to respond. College coaches receive hundreds of emails each week. They can tell when an athlete has taken the time to write them a personalized email and when someone is using a form letter, just changing the name of the coach and school.

Include the contact information for your coaches – If you are emailing a college coach before they are allowed to respond to your email, they need the contact information for your coaches so they can let them know they are interested. Here is how it works, you email the college coach, and if they are interested, they will contact your coach and let your coach know when to call them so you can talk.

Just your basic athletic and academic information – Coaches don’t expect you to be a college ready athlete when you email them; they just need to see that you have potential. Include your basic info, there is no need to detail every award or stat from the last few years.

Let them know where you will be competing – Second to your contact information, coaches need to know where/when they can watch you in person. Coaches bring a list of athletes they want to watch at a tournament or showcase; they don’t go there hoping to discover talent. They need to know where you are playing so they can add you to their list of players to watch.

Template for Emailing College Coaches

Dear [Coach’s Name],

My name is [Your Name], I am part of the class of [Your Graduating Class] at [Your High School] in [Your Hometown and State]. I am interested in [The Name of The University] and learning more about your program.

[Include information here about the research you did into their program]

I play [List your position or best events here and the name of your team]. Some of my best accomplishments to date are [list your top two or three best times, awards or recognitions]. You can view my complete online profile here [Link to your online profile if you have one]. Here is a link to my highlight tape [link to your online highlight tape]. Please feel free to contact my coach(s) [List the email and phone number for your high school and/or club team coach]. Here is my schedule:

Date                Location                      Name of Event                          My Team Name

2/22/2014    Sacramento, CA          Elite 7-on-7 Tournament          Nor-Cal All-Stars

[List your GPA and test scores here if you have taken them]. [Talk about what you like about the academic reputations of the school].

I will be following up this email with a phone call. I look forward to hearing back from you and learning more about your program.

[Your Name] [Email] [Phone] [Address]

Use This Checklist Before You Send Your Email

Have a professional sounding email address – Creating a new email account is free; there is no excuse for emailing a coach using your [email protected] email address. Make it something simple with just your name and graduating class [email protected].

The title needs to make the coach want to open it – Include your name, position and graduating class in the email. Coaches appreciate being able to tell what the email is about in the title. For more on that, go here .

Do proper research – You should know things like if there are athletes from your hometown on the roster, how many upper classman at your position, the team’s record and the athletic background of the athletes currently on the team.

Collect the coach’s email and phone number – There are several ways to get a coaches email address. You can use our free recruiting profile or go to the athletic website and look for the staff directory. Here is how to find a coaches contact information .

Spell Check and use proper grammar – This is not the time to use “text speak”. Have someone read the email before you send it.

Follow up your email with a phone call – The phone is the best way to get a hold of a coach, you should follow up you email with a phone call.

If you are already emailing coaches but not getting a response, here is some advice on how many times you should be emailing coaches .

Bethel University Tennessee Sports Recruiting.

Bethesda University of California Sports Recruiting.

Bethune Cookman University Sports Recruiting.

Bevill State Community College Sports Recruiting.

Are you ready for the NEXT STEP!

• Division 1 Colleges
• Division 2 Colleges
• Division 3 Colleges
• NCAA Clearinghouse
• NCAA Eligibility Center
• Academic Requirements
• Transfering Colleges
• NAIA Clearinghouse
• How to Get Recruited
• Emailing Coaches
• Contacting Coaches
• Camps, Combines & Showcases
• International Athletes
• Recruiting Rules
• Beach Volleyball
• Cross Country
• Field Hockey
• Track & Field
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Notice
• California Privacy
• Manage Privacy Settings

Advice from College Coaches For Athletes

Sample college recruiting email template to send to a college coach.

The best part about the SportsRecruits Messaging System is that your messages automatically include a direct link to your personal profile. This means that coaches are only one-click away from seeing your potential as an academic athlete. When a coach views your profile or watches your video, SportsRecruits notifies you who it was. But how do you know what to say in your email? Don’t have a SportsRecruits account yet? Sign up for free here .

It is important to make a great first impression in collegiate athletic recruiting and it is difficult to convey your personality and genuine interest through an email. You want to set yourself apart from others and below are some tips to ensure your email captures a coach’s attention.

Keep It Short and To the Point.

Coaches get hundreds of emails from players each year, so refrain from telling them your entire lacrosse history. If you received a noteworthy award(s), mention it, but don’t list every accolade you have ever received. They can see that on your profile!

Include the Essentials

Not everything is important, but college coaches need to know certain things about you, quickly, before they can consider you for their program. You want to include the following:

• Your Name – you would be surprised how often players forget this!
• Your Position – so coaches can determine if they need to fill your position, or not.
• Your Club Team and Number – Be specific because your club program likely has 2-5 teams per age group. Also include your number so coaches will be able to find you easily on the court if they want to see you play in person.
• Your Graduation Year – This is VERY important because coaches are only allowed to contact you after September 1st of your junior year (per NCAA rules). In other words, they can’t write back before this time. However YOU can contact a coach as much as you like. If you call a coach and he / she picks up, the coach can speak with you for as long they want since the player is the one who made the initial contact. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS BY BEING PROACTIVE!

Make It Personal!

It’s easy for coaches to see through a blast email. So do yourself a favor and write a personal email to each coach. This shows coaches you are genuinely interested in their program, and they will spend more time reviewing your information and video. This will also get you thinking about why you would actually want to attend each school.

Probably the most important aspect of an introduction letter is access to video. You may sound great on paper, but a coach won’t make any serious evaluations of you until they can see you play. This is why the SportsRecruits Messaging System is so great! When you send an email through the site, your profile link is automatically embedded, giving coaches one-click access to your video.

The Template

Now that you know what to include in your email, see how we applied the tips above in a sample college recruiting email template:

Dear Coach_____,

My name is _______________ . I am a 2016 goalie, currently playing club for Ultimate Lacrosse Club, U16 Black out of Orlando, FL.  I attend Central High School and last season I was an All-American nominee.

I am beginning to explore my college options and am very interested attending and playing Lacrosse at Sports Recruits University. Sports Recruits University offers everything I am looking for in a college experience i.e. a university close to home, a world renowned business program, and a competitive lacrosse program with a winning tradition. Therefore, I want to introduce myself and give you some information about my athletic and academic backgrounds.

Please click on the link below to access all of my information including contact information, coach’s contact information, lacrosse awards, travel schedule, lacrosse statistics, and academic information. You will also be able to watch my highlight reel and an un-edited game on my SportsRecruits player profile.

I hope you will have the opportunity to watch our team play this season. I believe I have the ability to be a part of your team, and contribute to its future success.

Thank you for your consideration.

Your Name Your Phone Number Your Address

With this sample college recruiting email template, you’re ready to reach out to a coach! So head on over to the SportsRecruits Message Center and get to work.

Want more tips?

Everything to know about contacting college coaches →

Take the next step.

Advertisement

Recruiting tip: sample emails to send to college coaches, share this article.

USA TODAY High School Sports has a weekly column on the recruiting process. This isn’t about where just the top five-star athletes are headed but rather a guide to the process and the pitfalls for student-athletes nationwide from Fred Bastie, the owner and founder of Playced.com. Playced.com is an industry leader in college recruiting. Their technology-based recruiting software identifies the right colleges for potential recruits to pursue and their recruiting advisers provide a recruiting experience that is trusted by college coaches and backed by a money-back guarantee.

There are only so many ways to generate interest from college coaches. You can sign up for a camp, try to connect on Twitter, schedule some unofficial visits, or you can strategically email colleges coaches at schools that match your abilities. I know you’ve heard it before, but the most efficient way to start a dialogue with a college coach is to send emails. Keep in mind that the first email you send has to be personalized, relatively short and provide an easy way for a coach to quickly make a decision on whether or not he or she is interested in responding to you. A follow up email should be similar, but with a slightly different message.

Here are three example emails. The first one is an introductory email and the next two are follow up emails with different circumstances. The purpose of these examples is to give you an idea of the tone, length and general content for your emails, but the emails you send need to be in your own words.

Example of an introductory email

Subject: Requesting camp/workout info, Offensive Line, Class of 2018

Coach Smith,

My name is Roger Williams and I am an Offensive Lineman, class of 2018, who attends Adams County Christian School in Natchez, MS. I am very interested in playing for ABC University. I know I will get a great education and hope to continue my athletic career.

When you have a moment, could you please look at my highlight video and give me some feedback? I’d like to see if there might be any opportunities for me, within your program.

Here’s a link to my resume with highlight video included: https://bit.ly/2G4u5fy . I greatly appreciate any input you might have for me.

Thank you for your time,

Roger Williams Cell: 455-999-9995 Email: [email protected]

If you don’t get a response, then a few weeks after your introductory email, you should send a follow up email. There’s a fine line between being persistent and being rude. Tone and frequency can go a long way toward hearing back from a college coach. Sending a follow up email after a few weeks while expressing an understanding of how busy college coaches are will be much better received than sending emails and leaving voicemails demanding a response.

Example of a follow up email

I didn’t receive a response on a previous email I sent and wanted to reach out again because I am very interested in playing for ABC University. My name is Roger Williams and I am an Offensive Lineman, class of 2018, who attends Adams County Christian School in Natchez, MS.

My high school coach believes that ABC University would be a good match for me.  If you would like to contact him, his email address is [email protected] . I know you are extremely busy, but could you please look at my highlight video and give me some feedback? I’m very interested in being a Bulldog in 2019.

Another opportunity to send a follow up email is if you decide to visit the campus. This would be an unofficial visit, but it might help convince a coach you are really interested in the program.

Example of a follow up email regarding an unofficial visit

Subject: Visiting Campus on May 12-14

I just wanted to follow up on a previous email I sent. Currently, I would consider ABC University one of my top three choices, as far as schools I would like to attend. I am also very interested in the ABC University Football program and would like to discuss any roster opportunities there might be within your program.

I will be in your area on May 12-14, and I was hoping I could visit the ABC campus. I am very flexible in working out a time to visit, so please let me know your availability.

For your reference, here is a link to my athletic resume, highlight video included: https://bit.ly/2G4u5fy . If there is anything else you need from me, please let me know.

Here’s the deal

The above emails are just examples to give you some ideas on the topics to cover in your emails. Your emails will be much more effective if you write them yourself. Look for our recruiting tip next Monday. We’ll cover an email strategy when you sign up for a showcase or camp.

More Recruiting Column

Playced: recruiting column: wish i would’ve known then, what i know now, playced recruiting column: you’ve signed. now what, playced recruiting column: assume nothing, playced recruiting: do this to get a coach to reply, playced recruiting column: spend your recruiting dollars wisely.

Playced Recruiting Column: Imagine you’re the coach

Recruiting Column: The recruit-able equation

Playced Recruiting Tip: Time to get real

Playced Recruiting Column: Augustana softball coach Gretta Melsted talks recruiting

Recruiting Column: Not being recruited? Take this advice.

Most popular, chipotle nationals day 2: cooper flagg outduels cameron boozer; jaloni cambridge posts 33, 2024 mcdonald's all-american girls basketball game: photos from east's 98-74 win, 25 of the greatest high school basketball players of all time, 2024 national recruiting rankings: updated top 25 teams, 2024 national recruiting rankings: updated top 25 basketball teams, the top 25 girls basketball recruits in the class of 2023, a rundown of every boys team in the 2024 chipotle nationals high school basketball tournament.

Trace creates individual highlights that make your player better - at every age and level of play.

• How Trace Works
• Club Directors

How to Email College Coaches: A Soccer Player’s Guide

It's important to put your best foot forward. here is a quick guide to crafting the perfect recruitment email..

by Christina Ordonez

Former Division I player and Team Captain '15 at the University of Michigan where I played from 2012-15. Made appearances at the Big 10 and NCAA tournaments including a 2012 Sweet 16 appearance and 2013 Elite 8 appearance. Born and raised in Chicago, I played for and served as Captain of NSA Fury who won various State Cup, Regional, and National titles, including the 2011 u-17 National Championship title.

Recently, the ECNL published a study that found college coaches preferred to be contacted by email compared to texting and phone calls. But how can you make sure that your first impression will get your foot in the door? Here’s a quick guide to crafting personalized, professional emails to college coaches and recruiters.

Subject Line

The first thing a coach will see in their inbox is the subject line. To make sure they open the email, make the subject line informative so they don’t have to guess. Always include your name and graduating class . You can also add your club team name and position .

Subject: Christina Ordonez – Class of 2022 – Center Back

Now that you have the coach’s attention, you need to make sure to get them the essential information about you quickly. You can break up the body into three sections:

Section 1: General Introduction

The general introduction should further elaborate on your subject line by giving the coach a bit more information about you as a player. Be sure to include your graduation year, the names of your club and high school teams, position(s), and jersey number.

My name is Christina Ordonez and I am a Center Back (#5) with NSA Fury, graduating in May 2024.

Section 2: The Why

In this next section, you should describe why you’re a fit for this coach, their program, and this school. They should be intrigued by you, and want to learn more about why you would be an asset to the team. Be sure to personalize this part of the email. That means providing specifics about yourself (bonus points for including a good GPA!), but you should also make it clear that you are familiar with the coach, their program, and the school in general.

I have watched many Michigan games this season and believe my skill set is a great fit for the team’s 4-3-3 formation. I have been playing center-back in a 4-3-3 with my club team, and my ability to read the game and distribute out of the back would help the Michigan backline excel. I also know that Michigan has an amazing pre-med program, and with a 3.9 GPA, I plan on entering the medical field post-college.

Section 3: Upcoming Schedule & Trace iD / Game Film

The final component of your email is giving the coach a way to see your game moments alongside tournaments, showcases, and ID camps where they might be able to catch you in person. Keep in mind that most coaches will not have the time or bandwidth to watch entire games, so you should provide a more accessible way to see you in action.

If you’re using Trace iD , this is where you’ll drop the link to your iD along with some instructions on how they can see and explore your moments. With Trace iD, the coach can quickly jump into the full game from any moment to provide even more context around your play. They’ll see up-to-date stats across all of your matches, and anytime you add a new moment to your iD, the coach will have access to that immediately. Check out this sample Trace iD, created by a Trace athlete from FC Dallas who committed to Clemson.

If you’re not using Trace iD, you’ll want to attach some game film. Check out our do’s to get recruited for college soccer through game film.

My team will be attending ECNL Vegas from March 12-14, and I’ve included our schedule here. [OR I’ll be attending Michigan’s ID camp next month and am very excited to meet the coaching staff.] I have included the link to my Trace iD (HERE). My team uses Trace to automatically film and edit our games, and I’ve included some of the moments that I feel best represent me as a player in my Trace iD. Feel free to click the “jump to full game” option to watch a larger portion of that game or head to my “matches” tab to check out my most recent 5 games.

Full Email Example

To: [email protected] Subject: Christina Ordonez – Class of 2020 Dear Coach Berhalter,

I am really excited about the possibility of playing for you at the University of Michigan, and I hope to have the opportunity to show you that I would make a great fit for the team.

Thank you, Christina

Best Time to Email College Coaches

You’ll also want to be aware of how busy coaches are, especially during the season. Of course, every coach will have different preferences, but here are some general tips:

• Is it during their season? Coaches have a lot to do during the season, planning practices, preparing for upcoming games, etc. While it doesn’t mean you can’t email coaches during this time, be mindful and try to plan around their game schedule to find breaks when they might be less busy.
• What times do they schedule practice? If you know when the team is practicing, you can send emails around this to make it more likely for a coach to see it. Not only will it be more convenient for the coach, but you’ll know when not to expect a reply.
• Are you emailing too late? A good rule of thumb for emailing college recruiters is to keep communication between 6am and 11pm (in the coach’s time zone). This also makes it easier for them to see your email.

Who to Email Besides the Head Coach

On the note of coaches being busy, sometimes it can be more effective to reach out to someone else on the team about recruiting. Colleges and teams with larger staffs will typically have multiple coordinators and coaches, which gives you multiple options but can also be confusing to know who to start with. Your best bet is to look for a recruiting coordinator if they have one, otherwise, look for a position or assistant coach (just remember to mention them by name in the email and tailor it towards what they do).

When to Follow Up

Once you send this initial email, it’s important to know when to follow up. If you never heard back from the coach, following up can help remind them to review the initial email as they might have been busy when they first received it. If they did respond but haven’t given you any next steps, following up is a great way to re-ignite the conversation.

The best way to follow up is to make sure you have something new to offer them. And follow up by replying to the first email you sent, so that they can see the full context of the conversation and you can demonstrate ongoing interest.

I wanted to let you know that I added a few more moments to my Trace iD, it now includes a few more set pieces and attacking transitions. You can see those new moments by clicking here: (insert your Trace iD URL here)

Upgrade Your College Recruiting Resume With Trace

If you’re getting ready to start the college search process, there’s no better tool to have at your disposal than Trace. From helping your game to automatically editing your highlights and organizing them into an easily-sharable playlist, we make it easy to showcase your value to recruiters.

Learn more about our system and how it can help you (and your coaches) today!

• Related Articles

How One Athlete Uses Her Trace iD for College Recruiting

Trace iD is the home for all your best moments. Here's how one athlete uses Trace iD so effectively.

How to Make A College Soccer Highlight Video for a Winger

Learn the key factors to create a successful winger recruiting video for college coaches.

• Get tracing today

Wondering how Trace might fit into your game plan? Take a look at our membership packages.

Prices Rise Sunday At Midnight

00 : 00 : 00 : 00

50+ colleges

Uncategorized - March 1, 2022

Emailing College Coaches Before An Event: Template & Guide

One of the most important components of getting recruited by college coaches is by playing in front of them at ID Camps, showcases and tournaments. Future 500 National ID Camps for instance, features 50 top colleges from a variety of D1, D2 and D3 colleges.

Heading into an event where college coaches will be present, it is important to prioritize pre-camp communication. You should be emailing college coaches before you go to the event they are attending. Below you will see what a good email looks like when communicating directly with the college coaches that will be at one of Future 500’s camps (or another event). Take a look and incorporate your own information.

Here are also some tips you can use when forming your email:

Pre-camp: In your pre-camp communication the email should include the following information.

– Name & Age Group

– Graduation Year

– Email

– Cell Phone

Below is a sample email template to send to college coaches before a Future 500 Camp. Feel free to use this sample and include all of your own information.

SUBJECT LINE: JOHN SMITH FORWARD CLASS OF 2022

Dear Coach Robert, Coach Jackson & Coach Holland,

My name is John Smith and I am a 2022 forward from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I play for the Philadelphia Futbol Academy 2004 and attend City High School.

I am reaching out to let you know of my interest in City University and your program. I have been following the success of your program over the last few years and City University offers my major of interest which is Urban Development. I noticed that you will be attending Future 500 and I will be there too. I will send you my schedule a couple of days before camp when I receive it.

I have included my player resume link, transcript, SAT and a short highlight video. I have also filled out your recruiting questionnaire.

https://app.athletematch.com/players/alex-green/public

I look forward to having you see me play this weekend and good luck recruiting this weekend!

John Smith 2021, Forward

Philadelphia, PA

999-999-9999

When you email college coaches before an event you put yourself on their radar, establishing a connection before you play in front of them. This gives you a greater chance of having a successful recruiting event, particularly if the colleges are organized to watch every player – as is the case with Future 500’s ID Camps.

To see the list of 50 coaches attending Future 500’s National ID Camps in the summer, click here.

Interested in more topics? Try:

• Why Should a High School Soccer Player Looking to Play in College Attend a Soccer ID Camp?
• Why are Soccer ID Camps such a big deal in the soccer recruiting process?
• How Can I Improve My Chances of Being Seen by College Coaches at a Future 500 Soccer Camp?

Save $100 Today

Ready to impress? Get Identified by 50 Top College Coaches.

No thanks, I’m not interested.

LSU coach Kim Mulkey's feuding with the Washington Post. Here's what we know so far

As it turns out, the madness of March extends past the confines of the court.

LSU women's head basketball coach Kim Mulkey spent four minutes of a Saturday press conference going after her next opponent: the Washington Post .

Mulkey, who led the Tigers back to the NCAA tournament one year after winning a national title, accused the Post of writing an upcoming article framed as a "hit piece" about her. According to Mulkey, the Post's reporter has been working on the piece for the last two years and contacted multiple former coaches and players.

"I’ve hired the best defamation law firm in the country, and I will sue The Washington Post if they publish a false story about me," Mulkey said. "Not many people are in a position to hold these kinds of journalists accountable but I am, and I’ll do it."

A Washington Post spokesperson declined a comment request from USA TODAY on Saturday.

FOLLOW THE MADNESS: NCAA basketball bracket, scores, schedules, teams and more.

On Sunday, Mulkey had more to say when asked about her team's slow start against No. 11 Middle Tennessee State Tigers. While LSU eventually won handily, 83-56, the sluggish first half begged the question of whether the team was distracted.

“No. Listen, we’re not going to let one sleazy reporter distract us from what we’re trying to do. Absolutely not,” Mulkey said.

Here's everything we know so far about the upcoming article.

March Madness picks: Our Sunday bracket predictions for 2024 NCAA women's tournament

Rumors about a Kim Mulkey article surfaced on Friday

Pat Forde, a writer for Sports Illustrated, reported via social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Friday that he heard about a "big Washington Post story in the works." According to Forde, the piece may come out as early as next week.

The Washington Post reporter has covered LSU in the past

According to Mulkey, the reporter in question, Kent Babb, had previously written an article about Brian Kelly for the Post. She "didn't appreciate" the story and refused to sit down with him as a result.

Mulkey said the writer sent LSU "more than a dozen questions" on Tuesday with a deadline to respond on Thursday, "right before we’re scheduled to tip-off." (LSU's women's basketball team played their first game of the tournament against Rice on Friday afternoon. They won, 70-60.)

She went on to say she believed the timing of the questioning and deadline were intentional, an attempt to distract her and her team from their current postseason run.

"It ain’t gonna work, buddy," Mulkey said.

"This is exactly why people don’t trust journalists and the media anymore. It’s these kinds of sleazy tactics and hatchet jobs that people are just tired of."

Women's March Madness games: Schedule, how to watch Sunday's NCAA Tournament games

Kent Babb has responded to Mulkey's comments

Though both Babb and the Post have declined most requests for comment from multiple outlets, Babb did confirm to the Associated Press he is working on a Mulkey profile. He also seemingly responded to Mulkey's press conference allegations and lawsuit threats in a Saturday post on X.

"Hit piece?" the post read with a link to Babb's aforementioned 2022 article on Brian Kelly.

It is so far unclear when the Washington Post will publish the upcoming story.

College student allegedly killed his mom because she ‘got on his nerves,’ sheriff says

FROSTPROOF, Fla. ( WCJB /Gray News) - A 21-year-old college student allegedly killed his mom because ‘she got on his nerves’ despite having a great relationship with her, according to Florida deputies.

Emmanuel Espinoza, a pre-med student at the University of Florida, was driving down Sunday afternoon to stay with his mom, Elvia, for a family event.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said he decided he was going to kill her while driving home from college, WCJB reported. When he arrived, she opened the door and he immediately started stabbing her in the doorway.

Elvia tried to run away, but Espinoza kept stabbing her until she died. She was reportedly on the phone with a family member while it was happening.

After committing the murder, the sheriff told WCJB that Espinoza called 911 and confessed to everything.

He allegedly told deputies that his mom got on his nerves, and he wanted to kill his mom for several years despite having a good relationship with her, WCJB reported.

Espinoza was charged with first degree murder.

Elvia was a second-grade teacher at Ben Hill Griffin Elementary School.

Copyright 2024 WCJB via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Teacher faces termination after calling in sick for 2 days to attend a concert in Nashville, district says

Man accused of armed robbery was shot by victim, police say

Ohio native Gabbie Marshall trying to win NCAA championship

What time is the eclipse Monday? What is a solar eclipse? Everything to know

FOX19 Now obtains documents in investigation of former NKU coach

Latest news.

South Carolina Gamecocks beat Iowa, 87-75 to win NCAA basketball championship

Iowa star Caitlin Clark cools off after record-setting start in NCAA final vs. South Carolina

Single ticket sold in Oregon wins $1.3 billion Powerball jackpot

Family plans reunion and memorial party during solar eclipse