It’s the question every high school athlete and parent wants answered:
“What are college coaches really looking for in a recruit?”
While stats and highlight reels matter, the reality is that college recruiting is about much more than athletic performance. Coaches are building teams—not just collecting talent. They’re evaluating players on character, academics, communication skills, and long-term potential.
In this blog, we’ll break down the top traits that coaches consistently look for in student-athletes—and how you can showcase them in your recruiting journey.
1. Athletic Ability (But Not Just Stats)
Coaches do want strong athletes—but they don’t only look at your numbers.
They assess:
- Mechanics and fundamentals
- Speed and agility
- Positional tools (arm strength, footwork, swing mechanics)
- Versatility (can you play multiple positions?)
- Long-term projectability (room for growth)
A .500 batting average in a small league may matter less than how well your swing or defensive movements translate to the college level.
Tip: Use your highlight video to show quality reps—not just results.
2. Academic Strength
Yes, academics matter. A lot.
Coaches want to recruit athletes who:
- Will be eligible under NCAA or NAIA rules
- Won’t be a risk academically
- Can qualify for academic aid (which helps programs stretch limited athletic scholarships)
GPA, course rigor, and test scores are all evaluated.
Bonus: A high GPA and test score can help you get recruited by more academically competitive schools.
3. Coachability
Talent without coachability is a red flag.
Coaches want to know:
- Can you take feedback without shutting down?
- Do you hustle on every rep, even when things don’t go your way?
- Are you respectful toward teammates, officials, and instructors?
You can show this at prospect camps, in games, and even in how you handle emails and phone calls.
Always respond professionally and politely—your attitude is being evaluated from Day 1.
4. Consistency and Work Ethic
College baseball and softball seasons are long and demanding. Coaches look for players who:
- Show up ready every day
- Don’t ride emotional highs and lows
- Are self-motivated and disciplined
- Have a growth mindset
If you’re always the first to arrive and last to leave, or you’re known for hitting the gym on your own time, those things matter. Let coaches know how you work—especially in your emails or highlight video narration.
5. Communication Skills
How you communicate is often your first impression.
Coaches evaluate:
- How clearly and professionally you email
- How maturely you speak during phone calls or campus visits
- Whether you take initiative or rely on parents to speak for you
- Your social media presence (yes, they check)
Keep emails short and clear. Use proper grammar and include your basic info.
Always thank coaches for their time.
6. Character and Leadership
Many coaches say they’d rather take a slightly less talented player with great character than a high-talent recruit with red flags.
They want team-first athletes who:
- Lead by example
- Uplift teammates
- Stay composed in tough moments
- Don’t bring drama or attitude to the locker room
Showcase this in your coach recommendations, community involvement, or video voiceovers.
7. Fit with the Program
Each program has a different culture, playing style, academic standard, and coaching philosophy. Coaches want to know:
- Do you align with how they run practices, games, and academics?
- Will you thrive in their location, school size, and academic structure?
- Are you looking for a high-pressure environment—or something more balanced?
That’s why it’s important to research programs in advance and tailor your outreach to schools that truly match your needs.
8. Potential for Growth
Coaches want athletes who are still developing. If you’ve already peaked—or don’t show the drive to get better—you may fall behind.
They look at:
- Body type and strength projection
- Effort level
- Desire to learn and improve
- Coach feedback from your current team
Even if you’re not the best player on the field yet, your upside and attitude can still earn interest.
Final Thoughts: Show Them Who You Really Are
College coaches aren’t just looking for stats—they’re looking for student-athletes who reflect the values and culture of their team.
That means showing up consistently, communicating like a young adult, and putting in work—on and off the field.
The good news? These are all things you can control.
Want to Build a Stronger Recruiting Profile?
TAC College Recruitment helps student-athletes build a complete recruiting strategy—highlight videos, coach communication, school targeting, and more.
Visit https://taccollegerecruitment.com to learn more or speak with a recruiting advisor today.
