how to talk to college coaches on the phone
Getting a phone call from a college coach is a big milestone in your recruiting journey. It's a clear sign they are seriously interested in you as a potential student-athlete. Knowing when to expect these calls is the first step to being prepared. NCAA rules dictate when coaches can call athletes, and this varies by sport and division. For most D1 sports, coaches can begin making calls to you starting on June 15 after your sophomore year. For some sports, the date is September 1 of your junior year. Being aware of these rules helps you manage your expectations and ensures you don't miss a key opportunity to connect. It’s important to note that we do not recommend parents talking on the phone instead of the athlete, especially towards of the beginning of the recruiting process. To learn more, check out our blog on this topic specifically below.
Common Questions to Expect in an Initial Call
The first call with a coach is usually an introductory conversation. They'll want to get to know you as a person, not just as an athlete. This is your chance to make a strong first impression. You should be ready to answer questions like:
"Tell me about yourself. What are you looking for in a college and a sports program?" This is your chance to share your academic goals, your interests outside of your sport, and what matters most to you in a school's culture.
"What are your academic interests? What's your GPA and what classes are you taking?" Coaches want to know you're serious about your schoolwork. Be ready to talk about your grades, favorite subjects, and any majors you're considering.
"Why are you interested in our school specifically?" This is where your research pays off. Mention something specific you know about their program, campus, or a recent game. This shows you're not just calling every school.
"What are your strengths and weaknesses as a player?" Be honest and self-aware. Talk about what you do well and what you're actively working to improve. This shows maturity and a commitment to getting better.
Questions in a Deeper, Evaluative Call
As you move further along in the recruiting process, your calls will become more in-depth. Coaches will ask more specific questions to determine if you are a good fit for their team. These calls are a chance for them to evaluate your character and fit within their program's culture. Be prepared for questions such as:
"How do you handle adversity on the field or court?" They're asking about your mental toughness. Be ready to share an example of a time you faced a challenge in a game or practice and how you responded.
"What kind of teammate are you? How would your teammates describe you?" This question is about your character. Coaches want to know you are a supportive and positive presence in the locker room.
"Tell me about your training routine. What are you doing outside of practice to improve?" They want to see your work ethic. Share details about your workout schedule, skill development, or extra practice you do on your own.
"What other schools are you talking to?" This is a common question to gauge your interest and where you stand in their recruiting class. Be honest and transparent, but avoid sharing every detail. It's okay to say you're exploring a few options but that you're very interested in their program.
Get Ready with RecruitReach's Practice Call Feature
Even if you have all the answers memorized, talking to a coach for the first time can be nerve-wracking. That's why RecruitReach has developed an AI-powered "Practice Call" feature to help you prepare. The tool, coming August 2025, allows you to select a coach to do a mock call with. You can choose a position coach or head coach from any school you're interested in. The AI will then act as the coach, asking you common questions in a realistic, conversational tone. You'll get to practice your answers out loud in a low-pressure environment. After the conversation, RecruitReach will share feedback on what you did well and where you can improve.
The benefits of this type of prep are invaluable. You get to work out your nervous jitters, refine your answers, and learn how to speak confidently about your athletic and academic achievements. The more you practice, the more natural and poised you will sound on your real call. This feature ensures you're ready for any question a coach throws your way, giving you the confidence to ace the conversation and make a memorable impression.
