2 answers
Hadley
Student
6
Questions
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How can I stand out to college athletic recruiters on my current volleyball team?
I am a 2028 volleyball setter starting the recruiting process (prob going d3). I am not on the best club team, and we usually win about half of our games and end up in silver or bronze bracket. Next year I am probably switching clubs and trying to get on a better team, but what can I do this year on this worse team to make myself stand out?
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2 answers
Charla Bennaji
Partner Success Manager
2
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Charla’s Answer
I understand that it can feel discouraging if your team doesn't make it to the gold bracket, but college coaches still watch players in the silver and bronze brackets as well. Here’s a strategy that can help get coaches to come watch you play.
First, create a high-quality highlight reel that clearly shows off your skills as a setter. Include clips that show strong set location to your pin hitters, good connections with your middles, and your ability to run the offense even when plays are out of system. You can also add highlights of your strong serve and digging skills.
Next, email your highlight reel to college coaches before tournaments and invite them to come watch you play. This helps them know when and where they can see you compete in person.
Remember that coaches aren’t only evaluating your technical skills, they are also paying attention to your attitude, work ethic, leadership, and how you communicate with your teammates. As a setter, you are the leader on the court, so strong communication and a positive presence really stand out!
Keep developing your skills, maintain a positive mindset, and continue encouraging your teammates. Coaches notice players who elevate the energy and confidence of the entire team.
First, create a high-quality highlight reel that clearly shows off your skills as a setter. Include clips that show strong set location to your pin hitters, good connections with your middles, and your ability to run the offense even when plays are out of system. You can also add highlights of your strong serve and digging skills.
Next, email your highlight reel to college coaches before tournaments and invite them to come watch you play. This helps them know when and where they can see you compete in person.
Remember that coaches aren’t only evaluating your technical skills, they are also paying attention to your attitude, work ethic, leadership, and how you communicate with your teammates. As a setter, you are the leader on the court, so strong communication and a positive presence really stand out!
Keep developing your skills, maintain a positive mindset, and continue encouraging your teammates. Coaches notice players who elevate the energy and confidence of the entire team.
Rafael Diaz Montelongo
Consultant
563
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Rafael’s Answer
Great question, Hadley! As someone who swam competitively in college my first year, I understand the recruiting process and what it takes to stand out as an athlete. Being on a weaker team can actually work in your favor because it shows coaches you can lead, stay positive, and perform under tough circumstances. Focus on what you can control this year: your fitness, technique, film study, and attitude on the court. Create a strong highlight video showcasing your setting skills, court awareness, and ability to elevate teammates, then start emailing D3 coaches directly with your video, stats, and academic info. Don't wait to be discovered, attend college camps and showcases at your target schools to get face time with coaches. At the D3 level, recruiters care deeply about character, coachability, and volleyball IQ, often even more than your team's win-loss record. When you switch clubs next year you'll already be a stronger, more polished player from maximizing this season. Keep grinding, your setter mentality of making everyone around you better is exactly what coaches look for!