Advice for Families Navigating the Recruiting Process for the First Time
Starting the college baseball recruiting process can feel overwhelming — there's no single roadmap, and every family is figuring it out as they go. We asked dozens of college coaches from across the country what they'd tell a family just getting started, and their answers point to a few consistent truths: know your priorities, do your own research, and let your son drive the process.
Josh Schulman, Georgia Tech — Be honest with yourself about where you truly fit talent-wise. Getting real feedback early saves a lot of heartache later.
Nate Mulberg, Johns Hopkins — Let your son drive the process. Parents should be a support system, not a source of added pressure — kids who own their recruiting tend to have the most positive experience.
Nate Burns, Sewanee — Figure out your academic niche and preferred environment first, and ask coaches about their alumni network and what past players have gone on to do.
Matt Marsh, Russell Sage University — Invest in your own development rather than chasing exposure, and don't rule out schools because of where or when you got an offer — it's about finding the right people, and it's your degree either way.
Dan Davis, Truman State — Narrow down academic fit first since you're a student before an athlete, then factor in affordability, then evaluate the coach and environment your son will be around every day.
Scott Laverty, Chapman University — Identify "fit" academically, socially, and financially before anything else — and don't rule out a level you hadn't considered.
Tim Hollibaugh, Grinnell College — The more you know about location, school size, and available majors early, the better positioned you'll be.
Cliff Allred, Anderson University — Recruiting is a two-way street — ask questions and evaluate the coaching staff the same way they're evaluating you.
Navigating all of this on your own is a lot to take on — and that's exactly why families work with Campus Edge. We're the connected advocate in your corner, translating what coaches are really telling you, keeping the process realistic, and making sure your son is seen by the right programs at the right time.
Check out all Campus Edge coach interviews here: Inside the Dugout