It’s been a while since I’ve walked through the foundational steps of the college recruiting process, so for those of you just getting started — here’s a straightforward rundown of what the journey looks like from beginning to end.

Step 1: Get an Evaluation

Start by getting an evaluation from a qualified third party who genuinely understands junior girls golf, women’s college golf, and the girls recruiting process specifically. There is a lot of information out there — and unfortunately, a lot of it is misleading or easy to misinterpret. Because this process looks different for every player, getting an honest, experienced outside perspective from the start will help you understand exactly how the process aligns with your goals, timeline, and expectations.

Step 2: Understand the NCAA Rules

Know the rules before you act. There have been significant changes to the recruiting process over the years that affect both players and coaches, so it’s important to understand what’s allowed, when communication can begin, and how to stay proactive within those boundaries. Ignorance of the rules is never an advantage.

Step 3: Build Your Resume

A college coach should be able to access your resume quickly and find everything they need at a glance. This can be an online personal recruiting page or a clean, well-organized document or PDF. Whatever format you choose, make sure it’s easy to navigate and professionally presented.

Step 4: Create a Recruiting Video

Your video gives coaches the chance to actually see you — your full swing, your short game, and a quick intro. Use the correct angles, cut out anything unnecessary, make sure the sound quality is solid, and above all, make it easy for the coach to access and watch quickly.

Step 5: Research Schools and Programs

Before you reach out to anyone, do your homework. Understand what it takes to compete at different programs, what each school has to offer academically and athletically, and where you realistically fit. Take notes as you go and start building a school list. Dream schools are great — but your list should be anchored in what’s genuinely realistic for where your game and academics stand right now.

Step 6: Contact Coaches

Reach out via intro emails and phone calls where NCAA rules permit. Your intro email needs to be well-written — and written by you, not a parent — with a specific, genuine expression of interest in that school and program. Give the coach a real sense of who you are as a student, a golfer, and a person. Include your resume and video, and try to set up a time to connect by phone or video call so you can start building that relationship.

Step 7: Schedule and Take Visits

Visits are one of the most important parts of the process. They give you the chance to meet the coaches in person, get a real feel for the team culture, and honestly evaluate whether it’s going to be a good fit. While you’re there, make sure to schedule an academic tour as well if it is not already included — the full picture matters.

Step 8: Make Your Decision

Take your time. Consider all of your options and make your decision based on what truly matters most to you — not the rankings, not the pressure, not what looks impressive on paper. The right fit is the one where you’ll thrive as both a student-athlete and a person.