Division I: Division I colleges are known for being highly competitive with rigorous schedules. Athletes that compete at this level typically have 5+ years of experience prior to college and are standout athletes on the best club teams. These athletes are comfortable competing in an elite environment, and are prepared to have a collegiate experience that revolves around their athletic schedule.

Division II: The Division II level offers a unique opportunity for athletes. You'll see somewhat of a similar level of talent to that of division I, while allowing for more of a balanced college experience. The schedule is less demanding, giving athletes the opportunity to commit more of their time to academics and their social life. The number of schools in division II are less than divisions I and III, so finding a school that accommodates all your needs in this division may be a bit harder.

Division III: Division III colleges are known for offering athletes a more well rounded experience. There is a wider talent range within division III allowing for athletes at a variety of skill levels the ability to compete in college. While still being competitive, Division III colleges let their athletes create a more traditional college schedule. Although most athletes can find an athletic fit within the Division III level, typically these colleges are smaller institutions, providing a more intimate college experience. Athletes will need to make sure that their desires of playing at the collegiate level match up with their preferred campus environment.

Start to explore potential majors you are interested in, regions you'd like to live in during your college experience, and your ideal size of school. While playing a sport can be very rewarding, remember that your college experience encompasses much more than just the sport you play. It's crucial to envision yourself at your chosen institution beyond athletics.

Now is the time to do some research! After figuring out a broad idea of what you are looking for in a university, find 20-30 colleges that fit. You don’t want to be too picky in this initial round of research. It’s important to cast a wide net at the beginning of your college recruiting process that you can narrow down from.

You are going to want to reach out to schools with video of you playing. As much as you are trying to find your perfect fit in a school, coaches are doing the same with their recruits. It is important to have updated video that best exemplifies your current playing ability. Having a highlight video that is about 3-5 minutes long should be the first video that you make. Be sure to have the skills most relevant to your position first. Serving is not necessary to add. Every college coach is under the expectation that you can serve.

Other types of video that you can create are skills videos and full set videos. skills videos show you in a drill-like setting. It can be beneficial for coaches to see how you perform certain skills, but not a necessary video to create. Full set footage allows coaches to witness how you act during matches. Mistakes in your game footage are okay! There are no perfect athletes. Coaches are looking at what you’re doing when you aren’t touching the ball and how you interact with your teammates. If you have a set that you feel demonstrates your best playing ability you should have it ready to send to coaches if they ask.

Email the coaches at the list of schools you have compiled. It is important to contact all coaches on staff, not just the head coach. Keep your subject simple: name, position, and graduating class. In the body of the email, write a concise blurb about yourself, and attach your highlight video. Additionally, include your club tournament schedule.

Continuing communication with coaches is essential. Providing them with a monthly update is beneficial. Contact coaches before major qualifiers to remind them of your attendance; this is extremely important to ensure you are in their database of athletes to watch during those weekends.

You will end up creating a natural rapport with coaches as you continue the recruiting process with them. It is important to answer emails in a timely manner and provide them with meaningful updates when necessary. Don’t be afraid to request a phone call or zoom meeting with coaches as you get to know them. A lot of times speaking directly to the coaching staff will give both parties a better understanding on if it’s a good fit.