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 … Read more
Sometimes the signs are right in front of us. You’ve been to the camps. Played in the showcases. Posted the highlights. Emailed coaches. Filled out questionnaires. You’ve waited. And waited. And still, nothing is happening. Here’s your sign. You’re Working Hard, But Nothing Is Changing Working hard and being recruited are not the same thing. … Read more
Some dreams are written down. Others are lived. In 2016, a freshman at Decatur High School named Jordan Walker joined National Scouting Report with one clear vision for his future. In his personal message inside the NSR athlete portal, he wrote: “My goal is to play Major League Baseball.” It was a bold statement from … Read more
When navigating the college recruiting landscape, it’s essential for student-athletes and their families to understand the key differences between NCAA Division I (DI), Division II (DII), and Division III (DIII) programs. Each division has its own rules, timelines, and scholarship opportunities, all of which can greatly impact your recruiting journey. Here’s a breakdown of the … Read more
The NCAA has entered a landmark settlement in the House v. NCAA antitrust case. This historic agreement is set to fundamentally change college sports, and its effects will be felt by high school athletes for years to come. The settlement introduces direct payments to athletes, new roster limits, and a re-evaluation of scholarships. Here’s a … Read more
The NCAA transfer portal is a hot topic, and for good reason. While it was designed to give college athletes more freedom, its effects are now being felt by high school recruits. The portal and the “win-now” mentality it has created have made the recruiting landscape more competitive and confusing than ever. This new reality … Read more
For thousands of high school athletes across the country, the dream of playing sports at the college level is both motivating and daunting. The recruiting process is not just about talent, it’s a complex journey that unfolds over several years, involving decisions that shape an athlete’s future. From the outside, recruiting may appear as simple … Read more
The Contact Period is a designated time on the NCAA recruiting calendar when college coaches are allowed to have face-to-face contact with a recruit and their family, both on and off campus. This includes watching athletes compete, home visits, and official/unofficial visits. Communication via phone, text, and email is also fully permitted. What Coaches Can … Read more
One of the biggest questions high school athletes and their families ask is: How do college coaches find players? While many assume it happens at a big showcase or on social media, the truth is much more behind the scenes. College recruiting is a business of efficiency. Coaches have limited time, tight budgets, and specific … Read more
National Scouting Report Softball Combines have become a big part of my weekends lately. We have a blast being able to get free metrics done for athletes wanting to play in college. At the same, we get to evaluate their talents. Having been a pitcher all my life, I, of course, work the pitching station. … Read more
