What College Coaches Look for in a Recruit: The Same Traits a Good Boss Wants in an Employee
- Tyler Lennon
- Jan 29
- 3 min read
When it comes to sports recruiting, college coaches aren’t just looking for talent—they’re looking for leaders, team players, and well-rounded individuals. In many ways, the recruiting process is a lot like a job interview. A coach, much like a good boss, isn’t just hiring you for your skills; they’re bringing you into a team, a culture, and a program.
So, what exactly do college coaches look for in a recruit? It goes beyond how fast you run, how high you jump, or how well you play your sport. It’s about character, work ethic, leadership, and attitude.
1. Character: Who You Are When No One is Watching
Coaches want athletes who are trustworthy, disciplined, and respectful. One of the biggest indicators of character? How you treat the people around you—your parents, coaches, teammates, and even opponents.
Do you respect your coaches and listen to feedback?
Are you the kind of teammate who encourages others even when you’re not playing?
Do you show good sportsmanship, or do you make excuses and blame others?
Your attitude speaks louder than your stats. A player who uplifts their teammates, stays humble, and leads by example will always stand out to recruiters.
2. Work Ethic: How Hard Do You Work When No One is Watching?
Talent will only take you so far. The best athletes are the ones who put in the extra work—whether it’s in practice, in the weight room, or in the classroom.
Coaches want to know:
Are you the first to show up and the last to leave practice?
Do you push yourself even when you’re tired?
How do you handle adversity—do you quit or push through?
Effort in practice is a preview of how hard you’ll work at the college level. If you train like a champion now, coaches will notice.
3. Leadership: Are You a Leader or Just Another Player?
A great leader isn’t always the loudest person on the field. Some lead by example, others lead with their voice. Either way, leadership is key.
Do you hold yourself accountable and take responsibility for mistakes?
Do you encourage your teammates, or do you tear them down?
Are you someone your team can count on in tough moments?
I always tell my son, “I love when you celebrate your teammates’ victories. It lifts them up and encourages them.”That’s the kind of player coaches want—someone who brings out the best in those around them.
4. Parents Are Being Recruited Too
Believe it or not, college coaches pay attention to parents. Why? Because an athlete’s family dynamic often plays a big role in their experience.
Are parents overly controlling or “hovering” too much? This can be a red flag for coaches.
Are parents completely uninvolved? That’s not great either—athletes need a support system.
Is there a healthy balance? The best scenario is when parents are supportive but allow their child to take ownership of the process.
A coach is bringing your family into their program. How you as a parent interact with the process can influence a coach’s decision.
5. Academics: More Than Just a Game
College sports aren’t just about hitting a ball, throwing a pass, or scoring points. Academics matter—a lot.
Are you responsible in the classroom?
Do you take your studies seriously?
Are your grades strong enough to get into a college program?
The best coaches and programs care about academics just as much as athletics. If you’re serious about playing at the next level, you need to show that you can handle the academic workload too.
6. Be Proactive in the Recruiting Process
No one is going to hand you a scholarship. You have to take the initiative.
Reach out to coaches
Create a highlight reel and send it to programs
Attend camps, showcases, and tournaments
Keep your social media professional
Work on your game every single day
The best athletes aren’t just waiting to be recruited—they take charge of their own future.
Final Thoughts: Who You Are Matters More Than Just Your Skills
At the end of the day, recruiting is about more than just talent. Coaches want leaders, hard workers, and athletes with strong character.
Be the kind of recruit that a coach wants in their program—someone who lifts others up, puts in the work, and leads on and off the field.
Because just like in life, the same qualities that make you a great athlete will also make you a great employee, leader, and person.
Tyler Lennon
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