Every September 1st, high school softball juniors hold their breath. It’s the official Division I contact date, and many believe it’s the kickoff to their recruiting journey. But here’s the truth most don’t realize: for some athletes, September 1st comes near the finish line—and for others, it doesn’t matter at all.
By the time September 1st arrives, Division I coaches already know who they want. They’ve been evaluating and tracking athletes for years, building boards, extending offers, and filling future rosters. That first call or message isn’t about discovering new talent—it’s about confirming decisions already made.
What Does This Mean
If you’re a 2027 athlete and you are not talking with college coaches yet, here’s the truth: you’re not being recruited. Recruiting starts long before official contact dates—it begins with being recognized and identified as a prospect. Without that initial step, the entire process hasn’t even started.
And while many athletes sat waiting for Division I calls, coaches at Division II, Division III, NAIA, and JUCO programs have been free to evaluate, contact, and even offer scholarships all along the way. Those athletes who took action early are already building relationships, getting looks, and securing spots.
The athletes who got calls on September 1st weren’t lucky—they were evaluated, tracked, and positioned long before that date. That’s why you need to get evaluated by a college scout now. Be proactive. Every day you wait, more opportunities slip away and the gap between you and the athletes already on recruiting boards gets wider.
The First Step
Don’t mistake September 1st as a starting line. For many, it’s already the finish line. The question is: will you wait for another date to pass you by—or will you take action now to make sure coaches at every level know your name? Click the button below to get started with an evaluation.
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