Q:  What happens after a recruit sends a video to a coach and when should they expect to hear back?  What should a recruit do if they do not hear back?

A:  First all, every recruit should consider the time of the year when sending a video.  For example, if they send a football video to a college coach right now while the coaches are in the middle of two-a-days, watching film on recruits might not be a top priority.

However, here is some general advice that recruits can follow when sending video:

Aside from sending the DVD or online link to a video, an athletic and academic resume should accompany the film.  This should include contact information; etc along with a well thought out explanation about “why you are interested in their school and the reasons it’s a good match.”  This is a critical question to answer to avoid the appearance of a form letter.  Keep in mind, college coaches want to make sure you are interested in their program for the right reasons (they have your desired major, their school is within your geographic target area, you think you would be a great fit for their scheme).

Typically, a recruit should give the coach 10 days to respond and then be sure to follow up to see if that coach received the film and ideally request some feedback.

If there is still no response after a written follow-up, then I would recommend calling the coach to try and get a direct answer.  If you speak with the coach, be prepared with a list of questions.  If you leave a voicemail, make sure you leave the pertinent information such as your full name (spell it out), your phone number, and explain why you are calling and what you are hoping to accomplish.

Also, be open to the potential that the feedback from the coach is potentially negative.  Recruits often face the harsh reality of having to hear the following answers from a coach:

- You simply do not fit our program athletically
- I have already identified the prospects I am recruiting in your class
- We are not recruiting your position.