For all the coaches or former coaches out there, I'm curious how you handle(d) recruiting during your playing season? One HC told me that he focuses on recruiting all day every Monday during the season. What's the typical (if there is a 'typical') process for handling emails from interested players. When an email from a potential recruit comes in, how is it routed? How do you sort and prioritize the completed prospect questionnaires that you receive from your website? How many are filled out during a typical year? What time of year do you get the most emails/completed prospect questionnaires? If a player sends an email that catches your eye, is there typically email discussion right away or is that player put in a bucket with all the other players of interest to be discussed later?
How early is there a specific plan for recruiting needs put in place? When do coaches set their summer travel schedules? Are they basically the same every year with a few minor deviations or do they vary widely? Are there weekly staff meetings to discuss potential recruiting targets? How much is a kid 'recruited' before you actually see him play in a game? How important is networking and relationship building with travel ball coaches? How much do you rely on pipelines from specific travel organizations? How much are HC's on the road during the summer versus Assistants? What's the protocol for making a final decision on offering to a prospect? What is a typical discussion like when evaluating whether a player would be a good fit?
No need to answer all these questions, but any that you have particular insights on, or think interesting, I would be grateful to learn more. Thanks!
