Your Social Media and College Recruiting: What Coaches Look For
In today's world, a college coach's scouting doesn't stop on the field. They are also looking at your social media. What you post online can be just as important as what you do in a game - and unfortunately, it can be even more important if your social media presence is a red flag.
Think of your social media profiles as an extension of your recruiting resume. They show coaches who you are as a person—your interests, your character, and how you interact with others. A good online presence can help you, while a bad one can quickly end your recruiting journey.
Here's what your social media should look like to help you get recruited.
Enthusiasm for Your Sport
College coaches look for passion in athletes. If they go to your Instagram or Tik Tok account and see that you’ve never shared an image or video of you playing then that’s a little bit of a red flag. Participating in college athletics isn’t a side hobby. It’s literally half the name, student athlete, and many would even say that at some schools, athlete comes first. Some of the advice on the internet will tell you to create a second account specifically for being recruited. After speaking with college coaches, we recommend against using a second account strictly for highlights. A coach wants to see that your sport is a part of your everyday life.
If you’re using a second account for highlight reels and videos to help coaches get a better idea of the type of player you are, there’s better avenues than posting short vertical videos on social media to display your athleticism.
The Red Flags
Your social media presence is not going to elevate your prospects as a high school athlete hoping to get recruited. But, it would quickly derail your opportunity. There’s a few big red flags that will quickly take you from target recruit to do not recruit.
Negative language towards your coaches
Illegal or illicit activity, including underage drinking, references to drugs
Besides, quick red flags, there’s a number of behaviors to monitor, among yourself and your friends interacting with your profile:
Be careful of photos you are tagged in, such as those where you’re at parties and what might be in the background
Be careful of your captions and comments. How do you speak to others on social media.
What are coaches looking for on social media?
Coaches are hoping to see several positive traits in student athletes on social media, including a passion for their sport, leadership, and respect. These are three parts of an athlete’s character that should show up in all aspects of life. As we mentioned, coaches should be able to see that you love your sport and it’s a good idea to post images and videos from games. But, keep in mind “Do I want a college coach to see this gametape?” If not, it might be best not to post it. But, don’t think your social media is any replacement for a high reel.
