Triage Your Recruiting Process: A Smarter Way to Navigate College Recruiting

When the recruiting process feels overwhelming, it is time to stop guessing and start triaging. Just like a medical team sorts patients based on urgency, athletes must assess and prioritize their recruiting strategy.

This is not about doing everything. It is about doing the right things at the right time.

What is Recruiting Triage?

Recruiting triage is the process of identifying which areas of your journey need the most attention, right now. Whether you are starting from scratch or preparing to commit, this system helps you stay focused and act with purpose.

LEVEL 1 – CRITICAL (Immediate Action Required)

You are starting from zero. No coach contact. No film. No visibility.

Key Signs:

• No recruiting profile

• No highlight video

• No communication with coaches

What to Do:

• Build your online profile immediately

• Create a highlight reel using your best plays

• Make a list of 25–50 schools and start reaching out

LEVEL 2 – URGENT (Momentum Slipping)

You are in motion, but not moving forward fast enough. Interest is fading and clarity is missing.

Key Signs:

• Inconsistent follow-ups with coaches

• Grades or social media presence need work

• No offers despite some interest

What to Do:

• Follow up with coaches every 2–4 weeks

• Audit and clean your online presence

• Focus on GPA and test prep

LEVEL 3 – STABLE (Build and Close)

You are in a good spot—coaches are talking, and offers may be coming. Now it is about strategy and timing.

Key Signs:

• Strong relationships with multiple programs

• You are considering offers or waiting for more

• Confidence is rising, but clarity is needed

What to Do:

• Stay consistent with communication

• Define what matters most in a program

• Prepare to commit when the time is right

Why Triage Matters

Most athletes lose time doing too much of the wrong thing. Triage flips that. It gives you clarity, direction, and results.

Download the Recruiting Triage Checklist

Take this framework with you. Use it as a weekly progress tracker or share it with your coach.

Download the Recruiting Triage Checklist

Game Plan Takeaway

Triage is not panic, it is power. Every step of your recruiting journey deserves a plan. Prioritize. Execute. Elevate.