Why coaches barely look at most emails
90% of recruiting emails start exactly the same way: "Hi Coach! My name is [name] and I'm a [position] from [high school]..."
These emails all end up in the same place: a recruiting folder to check before tournaments.
Not because they're bad emails. Not because the players aren't good enough. But because they don't give coaches anything to draw them in.
Think about it:
- Every email lists accomplishments
- Every email mentions academics
- Every email includes a schedule
- Every email asks coaches to watch
When everyone sends the same email, no one stands out.
What Actually Happens
College coaches get dozens of recruit emails each week. During tournament season? Hundreds.
They scan for:
- Players they're already watching
- Names they recognize
- Something that catches their attention
Most emails get filed away for future reference. A few get marked for follow-up. Even fewer create real connections.
The Opportunity
Here's what most players miss: Your email isn't just about sharing information. It's about starting a conversation.
The best emails:
- Show you've done your homework
- Reference something specific about that program
- Create genuine interest
- Give coaches a reason to remember you
Coaches may not be able to reply until June 15th after sophomore year, but you want to write an email that makes them wish they could.
One Thing That Works
Even something as simple as referencing a program's recent social media content ["Loved that goal Player X scored against Y last weekend"] is currently enough to differentiate you.
But the more creative you can be, the better!
Reality Check
Your goal isn't just to be noticed. Your goal is to be remembered.
Sometimes saying less, but saying it better, makes all the difference.
Want my complete email communication strategy? The Field Hockey Recruiting Playbook includes my proven templates, timing guidelines, and frameworks for writing emails that actually get read. It launches on February 3, but you can join the waitlist and get it earlier for the lowest price it'll ever be.
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