A good email is a short, clear introduction with a film link and one real reason you're writing to that program. A bad one is a copy-paste blast with "Hi Coach" and a 10-minute video. This guide gives you scripts and a routine.
Before you send anything
Checklist
- A professional email address. Use a parent's address copied in if you're younger.
- Your film link works on a phone without a login.
- Your information is accurate: height, weight, GPA, graduation year.
- You know the coach's name and role. Use the school's staff page.
- You know one real thing about the program.
Official rule
For Division I football, a school may not send recruiting materials or electronic correspondence until June 15 at the conclusion of your sophomore year (Bylaw 13.4.1). The NCAA's guide also notes that, depending on your sport and grade level, Division I coaches may not be permitted to write you back. You may still introduce yourself. Sources: NCAA Bylaw 13.4.1, NCAA Guide, recruiting best practices.
Script 1: the introduction
Example
Subject: 2028 WR, 6'1" 180, [High School] ([City, State]): film and academics
Coach [Last name],
I'm [Name], a 2028 wide receiver at [High School] in [City, State]. I'm interested in [School] because [specific reason, such as the offense, the major, or something you read].
Film: [link] Height/weight: 6'1", 180 GPA: [GPA]. NCAA ID: [number] Contact: [parent/guardian email and phone] Schedule: [link]
I'd appreciate any feedback on where you see me fitting. Thank you for your time.
[Name]
This is a made-up template. Replace every detail with your own accurate information.
Script 2: film update
Example
Subject: 2028 WR [Name]: updated film after [event]
Coach [Last name],
Quick update: I've added my [season/camp] film: [link]. [One factual line: "Finished with 41 catches" or "ran a 4.7 at [camp]"].
I'm still very interested in [School]. Is there anything you'd like to see from me this [season/spring]?
Thanks, [Name]
Use real numbers only. Coaches verify.
Script 3: after a camp or visit
Example
Subject: Thank you from [Name], [Position]
Coach [Last name],
Thank you for the chance to [work out at your camp/visit campus] on [date]. I especially enjoyed [one real detail]. I'm taking what I learned about [specific coaching point] back to training.
I remain interested in [School]. What are the best next steps on my end?
[Name]
The follow-up routine
Coach recommendation
A simple cadence: introduction, then wait a week or two for a reply. Follow up once with one new thing (film, a result, an academic update, a camp). After that, write again only when there's real news, such as after your season, a camp or a visit. Keep a log. If you don't hear back, move on gracefully and keep working. Don't send "just checking in" every week.
Phone calls
Coach recommendation
Prepare, then listen. Write your three questions. Put your film link in front of you. Thank the coach for their time. Take notes. Parents should join the first few calls and ask about academics, costs and the program's timeline.
Good questions to ask a coach:
- Where do you see me fitting in your program, and at which position?
- What do you look for in a player at my position?
- What's your timeline for your next recruiting class?
- What are the academic expectations, and what's the typical class schedule for a football player?
- What are the next steps on my end?
- (Parents) How does financial aid work here, and when does your office talk about it?
Heads up
Listen for what is not said. Compliments, "we like you" and "keep working" are not offers. See Guide 10.
What not to do
- Don't send the same email to 100 schools with "Dear Coach."
- Don't exaggerate your numbers.
- Don't have an adult write every email for a junior or senior.
- Don't share your player's home address, birthday or other private information in an email to a stranger.
- Don't pay anyone to email coaches for you.
Your next step
Next up: Guide 8: Camps, Combines and Visits. The Coach's Recruiting Game Plan kit includes 10 email and DM templates and a phone and visit question bank.
Sources checked
Official pages used for this guide, and the date we checked each one. Rules change, so confirm before you act.