5 Tips to Stand Out in the College Tennis Recruiting Process

The college tennis recruiting process is competitive, but with the right strategy, you can catch the attention of college coaches. I've helped countless players secure spots on college teams, and I'm sharing five actionable tips to help you shine.

1. Build a Highlight Reel

Coaches don’t have time to watch full matches, so create a concise, high-quality highlight video. Include your best points, showcasing your strengths—whether it’s a powerful serve, consistent groundstrokes, or smart court positioning. Keep it under five minutes, and include your contact information and key stats (UTR, rankings, etc.) at the start.

2. Communicate Proactively

Don’t wait for coaches to find you. Reach out with a personalized email introducing yourself, expressing interest in their program, and attaching your highlight reel and player profile. Follow up respectfully but persistently, and attend camps or tournaments where coaches scout. Showing initiative demonstrates your commitment.

3. Maintain Strong Academics

Coaches want well-rounded athletes who can handle the demands of college academics. Keep your grades up and take the SAT or ACT seriously. Strong academics can open doors to schools with higher academic standards and increase your chances of academic scholarships.

4. Compete in the Right Tournaments

Play in tournaments that align with your skill level and attract college coaches, such as USTA or ITF events. Your Universal Tennis Rating (UTR) is a key metric coaches use, so focus on improving it through competitive matches. Ask your coach or a recruiting expert like myself for guidance on which events to prioritize.

5. Showcase Your Character

Coaches look for players who are coachable, resilient, and team-oriented. Display good sportsmanship on the court, stay positive under pressure, and engage with teammates and opponents respectfully. Highlight your leadership or volunteer work in your player profile to show you’re more than just an athlete.

The recruiting process can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I provide tailored guidance to help you stand out and connect with the right college programs. Schedule your 20-minute free consultation to learn how I can support your recruiting journey.