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Email hooks that actually work

by Alan Good
Apr 22, 2025
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If your email doesn't stop their scroll in the first few seconds after it's opened, you've lost your chance.

Most players start their emails with:

"Hi Coach! My name is Jane Smith and I'm a forward from Random High School..."

And coaches have seen that opening hundreds of times before.

The Pattern Interrupt

Think about how you decide what to watch on social media.

If the first few seconds don't grab you, what happens?

You scroll to the next one.

College coaches reading emails? Same thing.

But what if you started differently?

Hook strategies that work 

Instead of introducing yourself at the start of every email, try:

  • Referencing something specific from that program's recent games
  • Sharing news of an accomplishment that shows character
  • Sharing what you admire about the program's style
  • Opening with a compelling learning moment from your development


The key is beginning with something that makes them curious to read more. 

The Conversation Starter

Your email isn't just about sharing information.

It's about starting a relationship.

The best hooks:

  • Show you've done your homework
  • Create genuine interest
  • Provide a glimpse of your personality
  • Give coaches a reason to read more


Why This Matters

Coaches can't respond until after June 15 of your sophomore year.

But they can read.
They can remember.
They can add you to their watch lists.

One Thing That Works

Before sending your next email, write three different opening lines.

Ask yourself: "If I got 50 emails today, would this one make me want to read more?"

If not, keep writing.

Reality Check

You're not just competing against other players.
You're competing for attention in a crowded inbox.

Sometimes the difference between being noticed and being filed away is those first 3-5 seconds.


Want my complete email communication strategy? The Field Hockey Recruiting Playbook includes proven templates for every stage of the process, plus my framework for building relationships through authentic communication.

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Weekly issues of The Recruiting Roadmap, such as this post, will always be free. However, if you would like to support my work, please consider becoming a paid subscriber, which also gives you access to additional premium posts and Q&As!
 

🥇 Join now for $5/ month 

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