A Parent's Guide to College Tennis Recruiting

For many junior tennis families, playing college tennis is the ultimate goal. The recruiting process can be complex and intimidating, but with the right knowledge and timeline, you can navigate it successfully.

When Does Recruiting Start?

The recruiting process typically begins earlier than most families expect. Here's a general timeline:

Freshman year (9th grade): Begin researching schools and building a target list. Focus on academics and continue developing your game.
Sophomore year: Start attending college showcases and camps. Begin reaching out to coaches via email.
Junior year: This is the most active recruiting period. Coaches can begin contacting players directly on June 15 after sophomore year (per NCAA rules). Unofficial visits happen now.
Senior year: Official visits, verbal commitments, and National Letter of Intent signing.

Building Your Recruiting Profile

College coaches want to see more than just results. A strong recruiting profile includes:

A highlight video showing match play (3–5 minutes of quality points)
UTR rating and USTA ranking
Academic transcript and test scores
A brief athletic resume with tournament results and training history
Contact information and a personal statement about your goals

Reaching Out to Coaches

Don't wait for coaches to find you. Send personalized emails to coaches at schools you're interested in. Mention specific things about their program, include your recruiting profile, and express genuine interest. Follow up every few months with updated results.

Division I, II, and III — What's the Difference?

Division I: Highest level of competition, most scholarships available (up to 5 for men, 8 for women per team). Very competitive recruiting.
Division II: Strong competition, partial scholarships available. A great option for competitive players who also want a balanced college experience.
Division III: No athletic scholarships, but many schools offer generous academic aid. Focus is on student-athlete balance. Excellent option for players who love tennis but prioritize academics.
NAIA: Smaller schools with scholarships available. Often overlooked but can be a great fit.

Questions to Ask on College Visits

What's the daily practice schedule like?
How do you balance tennis and academics?
What does the team culture look like?
What financial aid or scholarship packages are available?
What's the coach's philosophy on player development vs. winning?
What do recent graduates do after college?

Remember: the right college fit is about more than tennis. Look for a school where your child will thrive academically, socially, and athletically.