The Hidden Tariffs in the Athletic Recruiting Process

Why Some Athletes Pay More Than Others Without Even Knowing It?

What Are “Recruiting Tariffs”?

In global trade, tariffs are taxes placed on goods entering or leaving a country. In the athletic recruiting world, “tariffs” are the invisible costs that student-athletes pay, not always in dollars, but in lost time, exposure, and access.

These hidden fees can quietly sabotage a recruit’s chances of getting to the next level. Let’s break down these recruiting tariffs and, more importantly, how you can stop paying them.

Exposure Tariffs – When Talent Isn’t Enough

Missed Opportunity = Missed Offers

Even elite athletes go unnoticed if they are not seen.
If no one knows your name or has seen your film, your skills don’t matter in the eyes of a recruiter.

This is the visibility gap and it costs you.

Athletes who don’t attend high-profile events, don’t post film, or play for less-known teams face this silent penalty.

Solution:

• Get your name out there early

• Build a professional online presence

• Share highlights and stats often

• Use software that alerts coaches when you update your profile

Financial Tariffs – The Pay-to-Play Problem

More Money, More Exposure? Not Always.

Travel teams, camps, showcases, editing software, it all adds up. For families without deep pockets, these extras become heavy costs that limit exposure.

But here’s the truth: you don’t need to pay for everything. You just need to be strategic.

Solution:

• Pick events with verified coach attendance

• Maximize what’s free (social media, email outreach)

• Partner with a recruiting platform that works while you sleep

Knowledge Tariffs – The Cost of Not Knowing

Confusion Can Be Expensive

Late starts. Missed emails. Violated contact rules. These all result from not understanding the recruiting timeline or the rules of engagement.

And every mistake can cost you interest, relationships, and scholarships.

Solution:

• Start learning in 9th or 10th grade

• Attend recruiting webinars or trainings

• Download a recruiting roadmap and timeline

• Ask questions early and often

Connection Tariffs – When You Don’t Know a Coach Who Knows a Coach

No Pipeline? That’s a Problem.

Some athletes play for coaches with direct college connections. Some don’t.
If your coach doesn’t have relationships or won’t help, you are stuck paying the connection tariff.

Solution:

• Reach out to coaches yourself

• Follow up with intention

• Use recruiting platforms that give you access to verified contact info

Transfer Portal Tariffs – The New Normal

Fewer Openings for High School Athletes

Thanks to the NCAA Transfer Portal, many college coaches are now choosing to recruit experienced athletes over incoming freshmen. That means fewer open spots for high school recruits.

You didn’t cause it, but you still have to deal with it.

Solution:

• Broaden your target list (D2, D3, NAIA, JUCO)

• Be open to early playing time vs. just “big name” schools

• Stay prepared and proactive, don’t wait to be discovered

Game Plan Takeaway

Not every athlete starts on equal ground, but every athlete can level up.
Recruiting tariffs are real. But with the right tools and mindset, you don’t have to pay them.

Remember:

• Visibility is power

• Strategy beats money

• Knowledge prevents mistakes

• Communication builds connections

• Preparation outlasts uncertainty

Don’t let hidden barriers cost you a shot at the next level.