Essential Questions to Ask a College Coach on a Call
- Collegiate Goals Editorial Team
- Mar 15
- 4 min read
One of the biggest moments in the NCAA recruiting process is your first call with a college coach. This is your chance to make an impression, learn about the program, and show your interest. But many athletes freeze up, unsure of what to say.
If you don’t ask the right questions, you might miss key details about scholarships, playing time, and what the coach is looking for.
Why Asking Good Questions Matters
College coaches want engaged, well-prepared recruits. Asking smart, thoughtful questions shows that:
✔ You care about their program
✔ You’re serious about being recruited
✔ You’ve done your research
This builds trust and can increase your chances of receiving an offer.
Essential Questions to Ask a College Coach on a Call
1. What Are You Looking for in a Player at My Position?
This helps you understand the coach’s expectations. Some programs prioritize size, speed, or technical skills, while others value leadership and versatility.
💡 Pro Tip: If the coach’s answer aligns with your strengths, mention that!
2. Where Do You See Me Fitting Into the Team?
You need to know if you’ll have a real opportunity to play. Ask about:
The number of players at your position
The team’s style of play
How they develop incoming freshmen
💡 Watch out: If a coach dodges this question, they may not be prioritizing you in their recruiting class.
3. What Is the Team’s Training and Conditioning Program Like?
The NCAA level is a huge step up from high school or club sports. Knowing how the team trains can help you:
✔ Prepare physically before you arrive
✔ Understand what’s expected from players
✔ See if their training philosophy fits your style
For more details on training expectations, check out:
4. How Do You Support Student-Athletes Academically?
Balancing sports and school is challenging. Ask about:
Tutors and study halls
Required GPA to stay eligible
Class schedules for athletes
A school with strong academic support can help you succeed in the classroom and on the field.
5. What Are the Scholarship Opportunities at Your Program?
This is one of the most important questions, but don’t phrase it like you’re asking for money. Instead, ask:
How do you structure scholarships? (Full vs. partial)
How do players maintain their scholarship?
Do you offer academic scholarships as well?
💡 Pro Tip: Many programs combine athletic and academic aid—this could increase your overall financial support.
For more on funding, check out: How Canadian Athletes Can Stack Academic and Athletic Scholarships
6. What Is the Team Culture Like?
You’re committing 4+ years to a program, so it’s important that the team environment fits your personality. Ask about:
The team’s leadership structure
The coach’s philosophy on discipline and accountability
How the players bond outside of practice
7. What Does the Recruiting Timeline Look Like for My Class?
This tells you how serious the coach is about you. If they say:
✔ "We’re still evaluating" – They might be looking at other athletes.
✔ "We plan to finalize our roster by [date]" – This gives you a timeline to follow up.
✔ "We want to make you an offer" – Congrats! They see you as a top recruit.
8. Can I Visit the Campus and Meet the Team?
If the coach is serious about recruiting you, they should be open to having you visit.
✅ If they say yes: Try to schedule a visit. This will help you see if the school is the right fit.🚨 If they hesitate: They may not be prioritizing you in their class.
Real Example: How an Athlete Used Smart Questions to Get an Offer
Jake, a soccer player from British Columbia, had a call with a D2 coach. Instead of just answering questions, he asked about the team’s playing style and what they looked for in midfielders.
The coach was impressed by his preparation. A month later, Jake was invited for a campus visit and eventually earned a scholarship offer.
Your Next Steps for a Successful Call
Prepare 5–7 questions before the call.
Take notes on the coach’s answers.
Ask about the recruiting timeline so you know what to expect.
Follow up with a thank-you email after the call.
Keep communication going—don’t wait for the coach to reach out first.
For more help with college coach conversations, check out: Mastering Your First Call with a College Coach
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What if I forget my questions during the call?
Have a notepad or Google Doc open with your key questions written down.
Q2: Should I take notes during the call?
Yes! Writing down the coach’s responses shows you’re engaged and helps you remember key details.
Q3: What if a coach says they’ll "keep in touch" but doesn’t follow up?
Follow up yourself within a week or two. Don’t assume they’ll reach out first.
Q4: Can I ask about playing time?
Yes, but phrase it carefully. Instead of “Will I start as a freshman?” ask, "How do freshmen typically develop in your program?"
Q5: What are the most important questions to ask a college coach on a call?
The most important questions to ask a college coach on a call include:
What are you looking for in a player at my position?
What is the team’s training and academic support structure like?
How do you structure scholarships and financial aid?
Where do you see me fitting into your program?
These questions help athletes understand their opportunities and show coaches that they are serious about the recruitment process.
Conclusion
Your first call with a college coach is a big step in NCAA recruitment. Asking the right questions helps you stand out, showcase your personality, and learn if the program is a good fit.
Preparation is key—know what to ask, listen actively, and follow up afterward. This can turn a simple call into a real NCAA opportunity.
For more help with college coach conversations, check out:
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