by Grant Mollring, Tudor Collegiate Strategies
The NFCA Convention in Dallas brought together softball coaches and recruiting professionals to discuss the ever-evolving landscape of college recruiting. As we spoke with colleagues and clients, several recurring themes emerged—highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities faced by non-Division I programs. Here’s a breakdown of the key topics themes and how they are shaping recruiting strategies.
- Decisions Are Coming Earlier and Earlier for Non-Division I Recruits
One of the most pressing concerns is the accelerated timeline for recruiting decisions. Even for non-Division I programs, prospects are committing earlier than ever before. This trend raises an important question: How do we ensure we don’t miss out on top recruits?
To stay competitive:
- Be proactive: Establish early communication with potential recruits, even as freshmen or sophomores, to build relationships and position your program as an early option.
- Streamline evaluation processes: Make sure your staff has clear benchmarks and criteria for identifying talent, so you’re ready to act when you find a fit.
- Promote your program effectively: Highlight the unique benefits of your program (academics, culture, development opportunities) to stand out in an increasingly crowded and fast-paced recruiting environment.
- The Impact of the Division I Roster Cap at 25
Another hot topic was the anticipated impact of capping Division I softball rosters at 25 players. While this change is designed to create more balance, it raises critical questions:
- Will all 25 roster spots be full scholarships?
- How will this shift affect lower-level recruiting?
- Are Division I Programs in danger of being cut?
The consensus is that this change could have a trickle-down effect:
- More talent available for non-Division I programs: With limited roster spots at the Division I level, talented players who might have walked on at a D-I program could now become realistic targets for D-II, D-III, NAIA, or JUCO teams.
- Increased competition at lower levels: Non-D-I programs need to prepare for a potential influx of highly skilled recruits by sharpening their recruiting messaging and showcasing what makes their programs competitive.
- Decision time for Administrators: Each individual University is going to be faced with budget restraints and complications when it comes to the sweeping changes to the scholarship model, it is not out of the realm of possibility that established programs in the sport of softball may be facing challenges in holding on to their position. Fundraising and financial stability are added pressures placed on Head Coaches across the country.
- Maintaining Consistent Contact with Recruits Who Aren’t Ready to Commit
For many recruits, September 1 of their junior year marks the beginning of direct communication with college coaches. But what happens when prospects aren’t ready to commit early? Maintaining momentum and interest is a critical challenge.
Strategies to keep recruits engaged include:
- Regular, personalized communication: Build trust and rapport by staying consistent with texts, calls, emails, and social media engagement.
- Content-driven updates: Share program updates, success stories, or player spotlights to keep recruits connected and excited about your team.
- Patience and education: Help recruits understand their timeline while providing guidance on how to evaluate their options.
By maintaining a consistent presence, you position your program as a top choice when the recruit is ready to decide.
- Closing the Deal: Getting Recruits to Say “Yes”
Even with strong communication, the final hurdle is often the toughest: convincing recruits to cross the finish line and commit. What separates programs that seal the deal from those that don’t?
Effective strategies include:
- Create urgency: Highlight key deadlines and make it clear when spots on your roster are filling up.
- Be transparent: Share what your program offers that aligns with their goals, both academically and athletically.
- Leverage current players: Use your athletes as ambassadors to give recruits a genuine sense of your program’s culture and environment.
- Address doubts head-on: Be proactive about answering lingering questions or concerns to ensure there’s no hesitation when it comes time to commit.
Moving Forward: Turning Challenges into Opportunities
The conversations at the NFCA Convention underscored the need for non-Division I programs to adapt quickly to the changing recruiting landscape. Whether it’s acting earlier in the process, navigating the ripple effects of Division I changes, maintaining consistent engagement, or closing the deal, the key is a proactive, strategic approach.
By addressing these challenges head-on, your program can thrive in an increasingly competitive environment and continue to attract top-tier talent.
Grant Mollring is a former college football coach who now works with college coaches to help them boost their recruiting results. If you have a question for Grant or just want to set up a strategy call, email him at grant@dantudor.com.