Junior year is one of the most critical times in the college recruiting process. Whether you’re aiming for a roster spot on a D1 team or exploring academic-athletic balance at a smaller program, your actions this year will define your recruiting path.
As a junior, you’re no longer just “early in the process.” College coaches can now communicate with you directly. This is the year to take control—with a clear plan, consistent communication, and the tools to stand out.
This guide will walk you through what to do, when to do it, and how to execute a strategic approach that gets you noticed and recruited.
Step 1: Understand the NCAA Recruiting Calendar
Once you hit September 1 of your junior year, NCAA Division I and II coaches are allowed to:
- Email and call you
- Send recruiting materials
- Invite you to official visits
- Make verbal offers
Before that date, you can still attend prospect camps, email coaches, and build your brand—but now, things get more real.
Learn more: NCAA eligibility requirements for student-athletes
Step 2: Build or Update Your Highlight Video
Your recruiting highlight video is your digital first impression. It should be current, concise, and tailored to your position.
Include:
- Intro slide (name, grad year, contact info)
- Position-specific game footage
- Short skills segments (hitting, throwing, agility)
- Consistent camera angles and clear visuals
Keep it under 5 minutes, with your best plays upfront. Upload it to YouTube, Hudl, or a platform you can easily link from your emails and profile.
Step 3: Create and Maintain an Athletic Recruiting Profile
Your profile should include:
- Academic stats (GPA, test scores, coursework)
- Athletic stats and metrics (60-yard dash, throwing velocity, etc.)
- Position(s), height/weight, graduation year
- Link to your video
- Upcoming schedule (games, camps, showcases)
- Contact info and coach references
If you don’t have one yet, build a profile through a recruiting service or create a personal site.
Step 4: Research and Build Your Target School List
By junior year, your target list should be realistic and well-researched.
Aim for 15–20 schools across various levels:
- Reach schools (your dream programs)
- Fit schools (you align well athletically and academically)
- Safe schools (you’re likely to be accepted and make an impact)
When researching, consider:
- Roster size and class needs
- Academic programs
- Campus location and size
- Coaching style and team culture
- Financial aid and scholarship options
Step 5: Reach Out to Coaches Proactively
Don’t wait for coaches to find you. Now that contact is allowed, this is your chance to build relationships.
Your email should include:
- A brief introduction (name, grad year, position, location)
- Academic and athletic highlights
- A link to your video
- Why you’re interested in their program
- Your schedule for upcoming games or camps
Want help with this? Use our recruiting email templates to get started [link to TAC resource page].
Step 6: Attend Camps and Showcases Strategically
Camps and showcases are valuable—if you’re intentional about them. Choose events where:
- Coaches from your target schools will be present
- You’ve contacted those coaches ahead of time
- You’re physically and mentally prepared to perform well
Use these events to introduce yourself, show your work ethic, and ask questions about the program.
Step 7: Stay Organized with a Recruiting Tracker
Use a spreadsheet or recruiting tool to manage:
- Schools you’ve contacted
- Response status
- Camp dates
- Application and eligibility milestones
- Deadlines for financial aid, test scores, or applications
Consistency is key. Stay on top of your communication and timelines to make informed decisions down the line.
Step 8: Keep Your Academics Strong
Athletic ability will get you noticed—but academics will determine where you can go. Many scholarship offers and admissions opportunities are tied to your grades.
Make sure to:
- Stay on pace with NCAA core course requirements
- Take the ACT or SAT (or prep if test-optional)
- Maintain or improve your GPA
- Get to know your school counselor—they’ll help with transcripts and NCAA eligibility
Coaches want student-athletes, not just athletes.
Step 9: Talk to Your High School and Club Coaches
Your current coaches can provide:
- Honest feedback about your potential
- Recommendations for target schools
- Contacts with college coaches
- A second voice to support your outreach
Loop them into your recruiting process and ask for their help with communication and advocacy.
Step 10: Stay Mentally Focused and Patient
The recruiting process isn’t a sprint—it’s a journey. Not everyone commits in junior year. Stay focused on development, academics, and communication.
Avoid comparing yourself to others. Your path is your own.
Final Thoughts: Junior Year Is Your Launch Pad
Junior year is where recruiting momentum builds. The players who take it seriously now—by building their profile, contacting coaches, and performing consistently—will have more control and more options come senior year.
Want Personalized Support?
If you’re a high school junior and want expert help building your recruiting strategy, TAC College Recruitment is here to guide you every step of the way.
✅ Schedule a free consultation
✅ Get feedback on your video
✅ Receive help building your target school list
Start your journey at https://taccollegerecruitment.com
