September 1 is a BIG date in the Division I recruiting process—and for many athletes, it means getting on the phone with college coaches for the very first time.
Exciting? Absolutely. A little nerve-racking? Totally normal.
One of the best ways to feel more confident going into these conversations is to be prepared. You don’t need to have a perfectly scripted conversation, but you should have a few thoughtful questions ready to go.
Remember: your first phone call isn’t about getting every answer or making a decision. It’s about starting a relationship, learning more about the program, and giving the coach a chance to learn more about you.
Great Questions to Ask College Coaches on Your First Calls
You definitely don’t need to ask all of these! Pick a handful that you’re genuinely interested in and let the conversation flow naturally.
- Can you tell me more about your program?
- How would you describe the team culture?
- How do you support player development throughout an athlete’s four years?
- What are the team’s goals for next season?
- How would you describe your coaching style?
- What qualities do you look for in a recruit?
- What does your recruiting timeline and process look like for my class?
- What do your players love most about being part of your program?
- How many athletes are you recruiting in my class?
- How many athletes are you looking to recruit at my position?
- What would you like to see from me moving forward?
- What are my next steps in your recruiting process?
That last question is especially important. Before you hang up, you want to have an understanding of where you stand and what comes next.
Questions to Avoid on Your First Call
There aren’t necessarily “bad” questions—but there are questions that may be too early, too easily researched, or better phrased another way.
❌ “Will you give me a scholarship?”
It’s generally too early to make the conversation specifically about your scholarship package.
Instead, try:
“Can you tell me how scholarships and financial aid typically work within your program?”
This allows you to learn important information without immediately turning the conversation into a negotiation.
❌ “How much playing time will I get?”
No coach can guarantee what your role will look like years from now, and asking this immediately can come across as focusing on playing time before you’ve even learned about the program.
Instead, try:
“How do players typically earn playing time in your program?”
Now you’re learning about expectations, competition and player development.
❌ “How big is the school?” or “Do you have a business major?”
These are things you can—and should—research before getting on the phone. Asking easily searchable questions can make it seem like you haven’t done your homework.
Instead, go deeper:
“What makes the academic experience at your school unique for student-athletes?”
❌ Leading with “I need…” or “I want…”
Your first conversations should be about learning and building a relationship, not presenting a list of demands.
Instead, ask:
“What qualities do you see in athletes who really thrive within your program?”
❌ Overly Personal Questions
It’s great to get to know coaches as people, but keep those first conversations professional. As your relationship develops, conversations will naturally become more personal.
Instead, try:
“What do your players enjoy most about being part of your program?”
One More Thing: Don’t Turn It Into an Interview
Having questions prepared is GREAT. Firing off ten questions one after another isn’t.
Listen to what the coach is saying. Ask follow-up questions. Let the conversation go in different directions. The goal isn’t to get through your list—it’s to have a genuine conversation.
And remember, the coach will have questions for you, too. Be prepared to talk about why you’re interested in their school, what you’re looking for in a college experience, your goals as an athlete and student, and what matters to you in a program.
Before You Get on the Phone
Do your homework. Show genuine interest. Be yourself. Ask thoughtful questions. And save the big asks for later.
You don’t need to say everything perfectly. These first calls are simply the beginning of a conversation and a relationship.
Good luck, 2028s—and happy recruiting!
– Tori & The LineUP Team
