The earlier you start the relationship and communication with a coach, the more time you will have to make the best decision possible.

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Ask questions that are important to you and ones a coach can answer. Do not waste time on questions you can find online or the brochures such as: “How many students attend your school?” Make the most of your opportunity to develop a real relationship with a coach, and to determine if this school is a good academic, athletic and social fit.

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Feel free to ask coaches about themselves and get to know the person as well as the coach.

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Academics
Academics are the most important part of the process. Here are some questions to get you thinking about what you could ask a college coach:

• What are the admission requirements for an athlete?

• Can the application fee be waived for athletes?

• What are some of the most popular majors for athletes on your team?

• Will my specific major interfere with the athletic schedule?

• Do your players graduate in four years?

• Does your team have a full-time academic advisor?

Athletics and Recruiting

• What is your recruiting timeline? Have you offered scholarships to others in my class? Have any other athletes in my class accepted the offers?

• How many players will you be recruiting at my position?

• Where will you be recruiting this season?

• What does the training program consist of at your school?

• Is there a good time for me to visit your school?

Scholarship
Unless a coach brings up the subject, a prospect should never ask if he or she will receive a scholarship during an initial conversation. But you can still gauge scholarship possibilities at that school:

• How many scholarships do you have available for my class?

• What types of academic scholarships are available? What about other sorts of grants and aid?

• Would an athlete need to apply before a scholarship is offered?

• What would happen if an athlete with a scholarship offer got injured?

Social and Cultural Fit

• What is the relationship like between players on the team? How much time do they spend together off the court?

• What is the housing situation like? Do teammates typically live together?

• Do student-athletes stay on campus during the summer?

• Is it possible to work part-time in addition to playing a sport and studying?

• MY FAVORITE: What are your core values as a coach, and how do you incorporate them into your program?

Finish by asking the coach:

• “When can we speak again?” or “Is there anything I can provide you that will help you further evaluate me?”