Talking to Coaches

Communicating with prospective coaches is an important self promotional tool for all athletes and parents. After all, if a coach is unaware of who you are they certainly can’t recruit you to their program! Therefore, the information provided below will help your through the communcation process.

In Canada there are few rules governing communication during the recruiting process. In the U.S however, the situation is a little more complex. For example, in Canada coaches have been known to approach athletes before, during or after a competition in any grade. While in the US, coaches are not permitted to speak to athletes until “after” they have been released by their coach and not until after their tournament. (and can only do so in their grade 12 year) Primarily the NCAA rules below protect the athlete and create a fair and level playing field for all the schools. These rules pertain to NCAA Div. 1 and Div. II programs.
Grade 12
NCAA Universities can call seniors in High School after July 1st once a week, or email, instant message, send letters & receive as many calls from the athlete as possible. After a competition, a coach may speak directly to an athlete and their parent once the athlete is released or given permission by her coach. Even athletes who have signed the NLI can not receive text messages from the coach.

Grade 11
NCAA after Sept.1st of their junior year (gr.11), Universities can email the athlete or send letters, text messages are NOT permissable, OR instant messages and they CAN NOT call the athletes. Athletes & Parents can call coaches however if they leave a message, the coach CAN NOT return the call. If you miss a coach keep calling them until you reach them! You can email a coach and they can email you back as much as you want.

Grade 10
NCAA Universities are only allowed to send one (1) letter and questionnaire to an athlete in grade 10. They are NOT allowed to email the athletes or call them. Athletes & parents can call the athletes/coaches but there again, coaches are NOT permitted to call an athlete or parent back.

Grade 9
NCAA Universities are only allowed to send one (1) letter and questionnaire to an athlete in grade 9. They are NOT allowed to email the athletes or call them. Athletes & parents can call the athletes/coaches but there again, coaches are NOT permitted to call an athlete or parent back.

*Different communication rules apply for NCAA Div. III programs.

Instant Messaging:
Many coaches are now online everyday, especially following their regular season. Athletes are allowed to communicate with coaches through such services as MSN. **Only Juniors and Seniors (grade 11 & 12)

Similar Topic:
Questions to Ask the Coach