Your Next Step After a Recruiting Questionnaire

Once you submit a recruiting questionnaire, the next step many athletes miss is a simple but meaningful follow-up email. A coach should be able to understand the purpose of your message instantly, so begin with a clear subject line such as “Follow-up from (Your Name), Class of (Year). Clarity increases the chances your email is opened and read.

Getting Started

Start your message with a brief introduction that includes your name, graduation year, position or event, and the high school or club you represent. Mention that you recently completed the program’s questionnaire so the coach can quickly place who you are and why you’re reaching out. This sets the foundation for the rest of the email.

Demonstrate Interest

Next, demonstrate real interest in the program. Coaches want to know you took the time to learn about their school, so include one or two specific reasons you’re drawn to them. This could be an academic program, the coaching philosophy, the program’s culture, style of play, or the overall environment on campus. Specificity shows intentionality, and intentionality stands out.

If it is a selective or highly selective institution, it is to your advantage to demonstrate an understanding of their institutional mission. You can find this by accessing the “About” page on their website and then select their mission statement from the provided tabs. Taking it one step further and following up with your regional admissions representative and mentioning that also helps connect all parties while demonstrating your interest level.

Share Your Info

After establishing your interest, share a few key details that matter early in the recruiting process. Provide a quick academic snapshot such as your GPA or intended major, highlight recent athletic achievements or areas where you’ve grown, and mention any leadership or character traits you believe define you. This section should serve as a short, memorable snapshot of who you are.

Film is one of the fastest ways a coach can evaluate you, so always include your highlight reel and, if possible, one full-game or full-match link. Make sure all links are functional and clearly labeled to create a smooth experience for the coach.

Express Curiosity

To keep the conversation moving, ask one thoughtful question. This might be about what qualities the program values in recruits at your position, what the next steps in their recruiting process look like, or which events or tournaments they scout heavily. A well-chosen question invites a response and signals genuine curiosity.

Finish Strong

Finally, close your email professionally. Thank the coach for their time and include your phone number, high school and club information, position, and graduation year. Your goal is to make it as easy as possible for them to follow up.

A clear, intentional follow-up email not only sets you apart from the crowd but also shows you are proactive, thoughtful, and ready to communicate like a future collegiate athlete.