From Travel Ball to College Softball: A Recruitment Guide

The college softball recruitment process can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded. As someone who went through it as a player (I was recruited to Missouri State, a Division I program) and now sees it from the other side as a college coach at Prairie State, I can tell you: most families make this way harder than it needs to be.

Here's everything I wish someone had told me and my parents when I was in your daughter's shoes.

Understanding the Landscape

First, let's talk about the different levels of college softball and what's realistic:

Plus there are NAIA schools (~240 programs) and junior colleges/community colleges (~500+ programs). Many families hyperfocus on D1 when D2, D3, NAIA, or JUCO might be a better fit for their daughter's abilities, academic goals, and desired college experience.

The Recruitment Timeline

Here's when things typically happen - though the NCAA has rules about when coaches can initiate contact, there's nothing stopping you from putting yourself on their radar earlier.

What College Coaches Actually Look For

Here's insider information from my experience on both sides of the recruiting table:

1. Athletic Ability (Obviously)

But not just raw talent - coaches look for:

• Projectability - Will this player continue to improve?
• Athleticism - Speed, arm strength, explosiveness
• Position versatility - Can she play multiple positions?
• Measurables - Exit velocity, home-to-first time, throwing velocity

2. Softball IQ

Can she read situations? Does she know where to throw the ball before it's hit to her? Does she adjust to pitchers? Smart players are more coachable and contribute immediately.

3. Character and Coachability

Coaches watch how players interact with teammates, handle adversity, and respond to coaching. A talented player with attitude problems is a liability. A good player with great character is an asset.

"I'd rather have a player who's 80% of another player's talent but 150% of their work ethic and character. That player will outperform the talented but difficult player every time."

4. Academic Standing

You can't play if you can't stay eligible. Coaches look at GPA and test scores because they need players who can handle college academics while competing. This is especially important at D3 schools where academics are the priority.

Creating a Standout Highlight Video

Your skills video is often the first impression a coach gets. Here's what makes a video effective:

What NOT to Include

• Long intros with dramatic music
• Routine plays - show only your best
• Every at-bat from an entire season
• Blurry or dark footage
• Team accomplishments without individual contributions

The Initial Email to Coaches

When you reach out to coaches, keep it professional and informative:

• Subject line: "2026 Utility Player | Illinois | Video + Info"
• Brief introduction (2-3 sentences)
• Why you're interested in THAT specific school
• Key stats and measurables
• Link to your video
• Tournament/showcase schedule
• Contact information

Personalize each email. Coaches can tell when you're sending mass emails with the school name swapped out.

Making the Most of College Camps

College camps are often the best way to get direct exposure to a coaching staff. Here's how to maximize them:

• Arrive early - Get comfortable with the facility
• Wear identifiable gear - Number or name on back helps coaches remember you
• Hustle constantly - Coaches watch between drills too
• Be coachable - Implement feedback immediately
• Talk to coaches - Introduce yourself, ask questions
• Follow up - Email thanking them within 24 hours

Questions to Ask on College Visits

When you visit a campus, ask questions that help you understand if it's the right fit:

• What does a typical day look like for a student-athlete here?
• How do you see me contributing to the program?
• What's your coaching philosophy?
• How do you handle playing time decisions?
• What academic support is available for athletes?
• What are your players doing after graduation?
• Can I talk to current players without coaches present?

Red Flags to Watch For

Not every offer is a good opportunity. Be cautious if:

• Coaches pressure you to commit immediately
• They badmouth other programs
• Current players seem unhappy or guarded
• High player turnover year-to-year
• Vague answers about scholarship details
• The coaching staff has been there less than 2 years

The Role of Travel Ball and Showcases

Playing on a competitive travel team is essentially a requirement for serious college recruitment. Coaches attend the major showcases and tournaments because it's efficient - they can see dozens of potential recruits in one weekend.

Key tournaments and organizations that attract college scouts:

• PGF (Premier Girls Fastpitch) events
• Triple Crown events
• USSSA national tournaments
• ASA/USA Softball national events
• Regional showcases in your target area

Working With a Coach Who's Been Through It

The recruitment process is something I've experienced personally and now guide players through regularly. Having an instructor who understands what college coaches are looking for - and can help you develop those specific skills - is invaluable.

At The Softball Lab, we don't just work on mechanics. We develop the complete player that college coaches want to recruit: skilled, smart, coachable, and constantly improving.