Calling College Coaches With Confidence

Whether you're just starting or looking to polish your phone skills, this guide covers everything—from when to call, what to ask, and how to make a great impression. You’ll even get custom scripts and a phone call prep checklist to help you succeed.

Why calling college coaches can set you apart

When you pick up the phone, you show you’re serious. Unlike a DM or an email, a live call builds a personal connection and allows you to share your personality and passion directly. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being prepared.

Even if a coach can’t respond yet due to recruiting rules, hearing your voice - and seeing that you’re taking initiative - can help you stand out from other recruits.

Always start with an introductory email

Before calling a coach, send an introductory email. This allows the coach to see your name and phone number in advance (and helps them recognize you if you call). It also gives them a link to your NCSA profile and highlights so they have context.

In your email, include:

• Your name, position, grad year, and school

• Your NCSA profile link

• A brief intro to your athletic/academic background

• A clear statement that you’ll be calling and when

Pro Tip: In your voicemail, refer back to this email so they can easily find your info.

When should you start calling college coaches?

• Freshmen & Sophomores: NCAA rules say D1 coaches can’t call you back until after June 15 or September 1 of your sophomore year (varies by sport), but you can still call them. Use voicemail to introduce yourself and follow up via email.

• Juniors & Seniors: This is your window. Coaches can now take your call and respond. Be proactive, especially if you haven’t heard back via email or DM.

The best time of day to call college coaches

Evenings (6–9 p.m. local time) are often best during the season. Off-season hours are more flexible: mornings and early afternoons can work well in summer.

Not sure when to call? Just ask in your email:

"Coach, I’d love to follow up by phone. Please let me know the best time to reach you."

How to create a reason for calling

Don’t just call to “check in,” have a purpose. Coaches are busy, and you’ll stand out more when your call adds value.

Examples of good reasons to call:

• You’ve filled out a recruiting questionnaire and want to follow up

• You sent a highlight video and would like feedback

• You have a specific question about their program or your position

• You’ve updated your GPA/test scores or schedule

If you haven’t heard back, create a reason: add a new video, complete a questionnaire, or ask a well-researched question that invites dialogue.

What to ask college coaches on a call

Be ready with thoughtful questions that help you understand if their program is a fit. Categories include:

• Academics: What support do athletes receive? What majors are popular?

• Athletics & Recruiting: What’s your timeline for my position? What are expectations in the offseason?

• Campus Life: How do teammates bond off the field? Do athletes live together?

• Financials: What does it take to earn a scholarship?

Avoid yes/no questions and anything you can easily look up yourself and should know before reaching out in the first place (like a team schedule, mascot or division level).

How to talk to college coaches on the phone

Coaches want a glimpse into who you are, not just your stats. Tips for a good impression:

• Speak clearly, avoid slang, and show enthusiasm

• Avoid giving straight “yes” or “no” answers by expanding your thoughts

• Mention something specific about their program to show your research

• Be respectful of their time, keep it conversational but purposeful

• Don’t talk only about athletics. Share academic goals and character traits too

What do college coaches ask on phone calls?

Prepare answers for these common questions:

• What’s your GPA? SAT/ACT scores?

• What are your strengths and areas for growth?

• What made you interested in our program?

• Who else is recruiting you?

• What are your academic and career goals?

• What do you do outside of sports?

Be honest and don’t feel pressured to have perfect answers. If you’re unsure about something, say you’ll find out and follow up.

How to leave a voicemail for a coach

Don’t let a voicemail throw you off. This is your chance to make a strong first impression. Include:

• Your full name, grad year, position, and school

• A reference to the email you sent

• The reason for calling

• How you’ll follow up and how to reach you

Pro Tip: Have a script ready in case a coach doesn’t pick up the phone and you can leave a voicemail. Keep your message under 45 seconds. Speak slowly and clearly. 

Suggested scripts for calling college coaches

Use these conversational scripts to guide your call. Adapt them to your voice and your situation.

First-time call (If they answer)

“Hi Coach [Last Name], this is [Your Name], a [Grad Year] [Position] at [High School]. I sent you an email on [Date] and wanted to follow up about my highlight video and NCSA profile. I’ve really enjoyed learning about your program—especially [mention something specific].

Do you have a few minutes to chat?”

Voicemail script

“Hi Coach [Last Name], my name is [Your Name]. I’m a [Grad Year] [Position] from [High School]. I sent you an email recently and wanted to follow up. I’d love your feedback on my highlight video. I’ll send a follow-up email, and you can reach me at [Your Phone]. Thanks for your time!”

Follow-up call

“Hi Coach, this is [Your Name] again. I left a voicemail last week and wanted to follow up on my video and info. I’ve also updated my profile with [mention update]. I’d love to hear your thoughts—do you have a minute now?”

Final takeaway: Phone call prep checklist

Before the call

• Send your introductory email first

• Research the program and coaching staff

• Review your previous emails and videos

• Prepare 5–7 questions to ask

• Practice with a family member or in front of a mirror

• Find a quiet, distraction-free space

• Have your NCSA profile, script, and school info ready

During the call

• Speak clearly and smile (even if it’s not a FaceTime, your facial expression can be heard in the way you speak).

• Personalize your answers and avoid one-word responses

• Ask thoughtful, researched questions

• Take notes, especially about next steps

After the call

• Send a thank you email

• Provide anything promised (video, transcript, etc.)

• Log what was discussed and schedule your next contact point

Calling a college coach can feel nerve-wracking—but with the right approach, it can be your best tool in the recruiting process. Be confident, be prepared, and most importantly be yourself. Coaches don’t expect perfection, but they do appreciate authenticity and initiative.