Each week we take a question from a softball player, parent or coach and pass on to our long-time contributor, Cathi Aradi, one of the most knowledgeable people in softball when it comes to the recruiting process.

If you’d like to ask Cathi a question, e-mail us at brentt.eads@flosports.tv and we’ll pass it along.

Today, we get advice on what to do to be proactive in the recruiting process now that high school is starting up again…

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Recruiting Question: Summer is over finally and now I’m back in school mode!  What should I be doing now?  I play for a middle of the pack team and we played in some good tournaments and did OK but I don’t know how many coaches saw me the last few months. I want to be more active in my recruiting, what should I do in the next few months to help myself get out there more? — Hannah, 14U player from Ohio

Cathi's Answer: I suggest you start by reading my book and getting a thorough understanding of how recruiting works.  As a young player (I’m guessing you’re a high school freshman), you need to understand that–statistically speaking–the vast majority (80-85%) of college bound players won’t choose a college until sometime in their junior year at the earliest.

Yes…the bigger Div. I programs do identify and recruit prospects as freshmen and sophomores, but that will only be about 10-15% of all the players in your graduating class.  The other 85% or so won’t make their college choices until they are juniors, and most of them won’t make their decisions until they are seniors!

YES, SENIORS!!!

Seventy-five (75%) of colleges are Div. II, III or NAIA, and their recruiting timetable is different from that of the bigger D-I colleges.

Because of this, you have time to develop a game plan, create a resume and skills video, and most importantly, take the classes and get the grades you need to be a strong academic prospect as well as an athletic one.

If you want to reach out to coaches this year, send a postcard that tells them who you are and where you’re playing.  Then follow up in the spring with your 2016 summer travel schedule, and in the meantime, keep working on your game and on becoming the best player you possibly can!

— Cathi Aradi

Catharine Aradi is the author of Preparing to Play Softball at the Collegiate Level, published by the National Fastpitch Coaches Assoc. (www.nfca.org).  She has over 20 years of experience working as a recruiting consultant with athletes and colleges around the U.S and Canada.  If you would like knowledgeable, one-on-one guidance through the often bewildering labyrinth of recruiting, Ms. Aradi’s company, Collegiate Softball Connection, offers “concierge” recruiting services.  Unlike corporate websites that rely upon mass marketing of hundreds and hundreds of athletes, Ms. Aradi works with the individual player and her family to ensure a successful college search.  Detailed information is available on her website www.fastpitchrecruiting.com. Cathi can be reached by e-mail at info@fastpitchrecruiting.com or by calling 415-456-6449. Remember: if you use the code “fullcountsoftball” when signing up with CSC, you will be entitled to a $100 discount off her Fast Track or Elite options!

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