September 1 is one of the biggest dates on the recruiting calendar for Division I softball and lacrosse. It is when coaches can begin making certain direct recruiting contacts with prospective athletes.
But families need to understand one important thing:
September 1 is not when recruiting starts.
College coaches have already been evaluating athletes, watching film, attending events and building their recruiting boards. For some athletes, September 1 may actually be the end of the recruiting process, with a phone call leading to an offer.
But this year could look different.
Coaches Are Trying to Figure Out Their Own Rosters
The recent NCAA changes surrounding 5-for-5 eligibility, roster limits and the transfer portal have made roster management more complicated.
Coaches are now asking:
- How many roster spots will I actually have?
- Which current players will return?
- Who could I add through the transfer portal?
- How will additional eligibility impact my roster?
- How will I financially support the athletes I bring in?
For softball and lacrosse, roster limits mean every roster spot becomes even more valuable. At the same time, the transfer portal gives coaches another way to fill those spots.
That creates more uncertainty for high school recruits.
A coach may like an athlete but still be trying to determine whether—and when—that athlete fits into the program’s roster.
Don’t Wait for September 1
September 1 should not be the day an athlete starts thinking about recruiting.
It should be a date they are prepared for.
Athletes should already know which schools are realistic fits, where they stand with coaches, what they bring to the table and what their next steps should be.
Because September 1 could bring a phone call and an offer.
It could bring the beginning of a conversation.
Or it could bring nothing at all.
And none of those outcomes should be a surprise if you have a plan.
Guidance Matters More Than Ever
College recruiting has become more complicated, not less.
With eligibility changes, roster limitations, the transfer portal and new financial considerations affecting how coaches build their teams, families are navigating a recruiting landscape that changes constantly.
That’s why having guidance, advocacy and a plan is more important than ever.
Don’t simply wait for September 1.
Be prepared for it.
Talk to a scout today.
National Scouting Report is dedicated to finding scholarship opportunities for athletes who possess the talent, desire, and motivation to compete at the collegiate level. We’ve helped connect thousands of athletes with their perfect college.