Recruiting platforms like UniversityAthlete, NCSA, and SportsRecruits are useful tools for landing a spot on a college team’s roster—but they don’t do the job on their own, even if you’re paying for them.
Historically, our Pace Bootlegger parents have found the paid versions of these platforms to be unnecessary. The free accounts allow coaches to find you, learn about you, and stay connected as you progress through high school.
The difference between a profile that sits idle and one that actually opens doors isn’t about “free vs. paid”; it comes down to how you use it.
Here's how to make these platforms work for you.
1. Build a Profile That Coaches Can Scan in 20 Seconds
Coaches skim. They don’t read. Prioritize the most important content, to ensure that important details are easy to find.
One of the things we will start working on in a few weeks is your player highlight video. This is one of the most crucial pieces of your profile. It should be about 3 minutes long, because coaches are unlikely to watch beyond that mark.
2. Use UniversityAthlete to Be Seen at Tournaments
UniversityAthlete is the platform coaches actually use on the ground at qualifiers and showcases.
To maximize visibility:
- Keep your profile updated before every major tournament
- Ensure your jersey number and team name are correct. If your info is wrong, coaches literally can’t find you.
- Add your academic info—coaches filter by GPA and major
- Include any “Favorite” schools you’re interested in (coaches see this)
3. Update Your Profiles Regularly
Every time you:
- Improve your jump numbers
- Upload new film
- Change teams or jersey numbers
- Add academic achievements
- Update your schedule
…you should update your profiles.
Stale profiles signal a lack of seriousness.
4. When the Time is Right, Reach Out to Coaches; Don’t Wait for Them to Start the Conversation
The NCAA has very specific rules about when coaches can reach out to players based on the division their college team plays in and the player’s academic progress through high school. You can learn more about those regulations here: https://www.ncsasports.org/mens-volleyball/recruiting-rules-calendar
You can also learn more about the ideal timing for reaching out to coaches based on your son’s current year in high school (e.g., Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, or Senior) here: https://jvavolleyball.org/helping-boys-volleyball-players-find-home/
The biggest mistake players make is waiting for coaches to contact them instead of initiating conversations.
5. Communicate Like a Future College Athlete
When reaching out to coaches:
- Keep messages short and specific
- Include your grad year, position, and key metrics
- Mention why you’re interested in their program
- Link your highlight video and profile
Example opener:
Coach, I’m a 2026 OH from [Club], 6'3" with a 10'4" approach. I’m interested in your program because of [specific reason]. Here’s my latest highlight video.
Coaches respond to clarity and initiative.
6. Target the Right Level of Play
This is an area where players often need guidance.
Consider:
- Your physical metrics vs. typical metrics for your position at each level
- Your academic profile
- Your desire for playing time vs. prestige
- Geographic preferences
- Size of school and campus culture
A great fit beats a big name every time.
7. Use Your Club Coaches as Connectors
College coaches trust club coaches more than recruiting platforms.
Make sure your club coach:
- Knows your goals
- Has your updated metrics
- Can speak to your character
- Is willing to respond to college inquiries
A quick text from Cal or your Pace coach can open doors that a profile alone cannot!
Profiles Are Just One Tool In Your Arsenal
Recruiting platforms are most effective when they're part of a broader strategy that includes strong performance on the court, proactive communication, and honest self-assessment about fit. Use them to stay visible with programs that genuinely interest you.
The platform won't do the work for you—but when used thoughtfully, it can help the right coaches notice you at the right time. And that's often all you need to get the conversation started.