Choosing the right college is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make.
It can feel overwhelming trying to find a school that checks all your boxes for academics, campus life, location – and of course, athletics.
Talking with college coaches is a critical part of the recruiting process.
But what should you ask them to get the information you need to make an informed decision?
How can you make the most of these important conversations?
Questions to Ask College Coaches
Before we dive into the specific questions, a quick note: always be respectful and polite when talking to coaches.
They are busy people who are taking time out of their schedules to talk with you.
Show your gratitude and be professional.
What is your coaching philosophy?
This is a great opening question to get a sense of who the coach is and what they value. Do they prioritize winning above all else? Developing well-rounded student-athletes? Creating a family atmosphere on the team?
Listen to how the coach responds. Are they passionate and enthusiastic? Do their values align with yours? You’ll be spending a lot of time with this person over the next four years, so it’s important to make sure you’re on the same page.
You could ask it like this: “I’m really interested in learning more about your coaching style and philosophy. What are the core principles or values that guide your approach?” Let them talk and share what matters most to them.
The coach’s answer will give you a window into their leadership style, motivations, and personality. For example, if they emphasize character development and academics, you know they take a holistic view of their role. If they focus primarily on winning, that tells you where their priorities lie.
There’s no right or wrong philosophy necessarily. It’s about finding the coach whose approach resonates with you and can help you thrive as a student and athlete. Trust your instincts on what feels like a good fit.
What does a typical week look like for the team during the season?
Getting a sense of the team’s schedule and time commitments is crucial. You need to understand the demands that will be placed on you and whether you can realistically balance athletics with your academic workload.
A polite way to ask would be: “I’m trying to get a feel for how I would balance my sport with my studies. Would you mind walking me through what an average week looks like for your athletes in-season?”
The coach should be able to lay out the training schedule, weightlifting sessions, meetings, travel, and competitions. Pay attention to how much time is allotted for academics and recovery. Is there built-in study time? Days off?
Some coaches may say their athletes manage 20+ hours per week in their sport in addition to being full-time students. Others may have a lighter load with more emphasis on academics. Neither is inherently better, but you need to be honest with yourself about what you can handle.
If the coach doesn’t offer much detail or is vague about the time commitment, that’s a red flag. You need a clear picture of expectations so you can make an informed decision. Don’t be afraid to ask follow-up questions until you fully understand the schedule and demands.
What does your ideal recruit look like in terms of academics, athletics, and character?
This question gets at the heart of what the coach values and looks for in the athletes they bring into their program. It’s a chance for you to see if you embody the qualities they desire – and if their expectations align with your self-perception and goals.
You might say something like: “I’m working hard to become the best student, athlete, and person I can be. When you’re recruiting someone, what are the key traits and characteristics you look for?” This shows you care about self-improvement and want to understand their vision.
Most coaches will likely touch on the importance of strong grades and test scores first. After all, you can’t play if you can’t meet the school’s academic standards. Listen for clues about what GPA and class rigor they expect.
On the athletics side, the coach will probably talk about traits like work ethic, coachability, resilience, and leadership. They may also mention specific physical attributes or skills that suit their system and style of play. Consider if the qualities they list match your strengths.
Finally, pay close attention to how the coach talks about character and personality fit. Do they want fiery competitors? Humble team players? Vocal leaders? Think about if you would mesh well with the culture they’re describing.
If the coach struggles to articulate a clear vision or seems to only care about one dimension, that could be concerning. The best coaches know exactly what they’re looking for and take a multi-faceted view when evaluating recruits.
What are your expectations for incoming first-year players?
As a new addition to the team, it’s important to understand what your role and responsibilities will be from day one. You need to have realistic expectations about playing time and know what you must do to earn it.
Ask the coach directly: “If I were to join your program next year, what would you expect of me as an incoming first-year player? What would my role on the team look like?”
Some coaches may tell you that all spots are up for grabs and everyone has to prove themselves from scratch. They may expect first-years to primarily contribute in practice while they learn the system and adjust to the college level.
Other coaches may say that they expect incoming recruits to compete for starting positions right away and make an immediate impact. They may need you to fill a specific role or hole on the roster from day one.
There’s no universally right answer, but the coach should be able to articulate a clear vision and plan for your first year. If they make any promises about playing time or your role, be sure to get those in writing.
A vague response or dodging the question is worrisome. You should leave the conversation feeling like you know exactly what will be required of you and how you fit into the coach’s short-term plans for the program.
How would you describe the team culture and dynamic?
Joining an athletic team in college is like gaining an instant family. The teammates you sweat, struggle, and succeed with will shape your college experience in powerful ways. Making sure you fit into the team culture is just as important as meshing with the coach.
A nice way to approach this is: “The relationships between teammates seem really special. How would you describe the culture on your team? What’s the dynamic like between players?” Show you understand the importance of a strong locker room.
Ideally, the coach will get a big smile on their face as they talk about the tight-knit nature of their team. They may share stories about players picking each other up after tough losses, organizing team dinners and outings, or even forming a special handshake.
You want to hear that the players genuinely care about and support one another. That they hold each other accountable. That there’s a family vibe and brotherhood/sisterhood that runs deep.
On the flip side, the coach may admit that the team is a work in progress in terms of chemistry and leadership. Maybe there has been some dissension or cliques in the past that they’re working to improve.
While not ideal, an honest answer like that is still better than a coach who seems checked out about the interpersonal dynamics on their team. Building a positive culture takes work – what matters is that the coach is tuned in and proactively addressing any issues.
Use the coach’s response to this question to imagine yourself in the team setting day after day. Is it an environment you would enjoy and thrive in? Where you would feel supported but also challenged to grow? Trust your gut instinct.
What does the off-season look like for the team?
College sports are a year-round commitment, even when your season is over. Understanding the off-season expectations and schedule is just as important as knowing what the in-season grind entails.
You could ask: “I know a lot of important work and growth happens in the off-season. Can you tell me a bit about what you expect from your players in the summer and academic year when you’re not in-season?” This shows maturity and a long-term mindset.
Most coaches will tell you that the off-season is when championships are really won. They may have detailed summer workout packets that they expect players to complete on their own. There may be mandatory weightlifting sessions or captain’s practices throughout the school year.
Some coaches take a more hands-off approach in the off-season, trusting their players to put in the work independently. Others meticulously monitor every rep and run.
No matter what, you should leave the conversation with a clear sense of the time commitment and expectations year-round – not just in-season. If the coach doesn’t have an off-season plan or acts like that time doesn’t matter, that could foreshadow a lack of organization and discipline that carries over to the season.
What resources are in place to support student-athletes?
College athletes face immense pressure to perform at a high level both on the field and in the classroom. Having support systems and resources in place can make all the difference in managing those demands.
You might say: “I know balancing athletics and academics in college is challenging. What resources or support systems does your school have for student-athletes? How do you as a coach help your players navigate those pressures?”
A good coach will be able to point to robust academic resources like dedicated athletic tutors, mandatory study halls, and priority class registration for athletes. They may discuss time management workshops and one-on-one meetings with players to check in on their stress levels and overall well-being.
Some coaches work closely with the athletic department’s sports psychologists or learning specialists. They understand the unique mental and emotional challenges their players face and actively connect them to helpful resources.
Other coaches may take more of a hands-off, “figure it out” approach to academics and expect players to manage everything on their own. While this may work for some independent self-starters, most college athletes benefit immensely from structure and support.
Pay attention to the coach’s tone and attitude when discussing academics and mental health. Do they seem to genuinely care about their players’ personal development off the field? Or do they brush off those concerns as unimportant compared to athletic performance?
The coach’s answer to this question is a good indicator of if they take a holistic approach to their job. The best coaches understand that on-field success stems from off-field balance and stability. They will go out of their way to put the right resources and support in place.
What does the team typically do for bonding and fun?
Athletics at the collegiate level are demanding and intense. Having regular team activities outside of practice and competition is essential for building camaraderie, managing stress, and avoiding burnout. You want to join a program that values fun as an important part of the athlete experience.
Ask the coach playfully: “I’d love to know what the team does for fun when you’re not on the field or in the gym. What kinds of activities or traditions do you have for team bonding and enjoyment?”
Many coaches will light up at this question and eagerly list off the various ways their team likes to spend time together. Maybe they do an annual ropes course before the season starts, or plan regular dinners and movie nights.
Some teams have beloved rituals like a goofy talent show, pumpkin carving contests, or community service projects they volunteer at together. Others may bond over video game tournaments on road trips or just hanging out at the beach on off days.
If the team is very close-knit, the coach will probably know each player’s favorite hobbies and how they fit into the group dynamic. They may tell stories of epic team Halloween costumes or the silly awards they give out at the end-of-season banquet.
On the other hand, if the coach struggles to come up with examples or downplays the importance of team bonding, that could be a red flag. Teams that only focus on athletic performance with no thought to fun or togetherness tend to burn out fast.
Use this question to get a sense of the coach’s overall philosophy on building team chemistry and if they create space for joy and laughter amidst the grind. The balance between hard work and fun is delicate but important for a healthy team culture.
What is your preferred method of communication with players and parents?
Open, proactive communication between coaches, players, and parents is essential for a smooth college athletic experience. You want to understand from the start what the expectations and boundaries are around staying in touch.
A respectful way to ask is: “How do you typically communicate with your players about important team information or individual feedback? And what’s the best way for me or my parents to get in touch with you if we have questions or concerns?” This shows you value clear communication.
Many coaches have specific procedures they layout from the beginning. They may send a weekly email newsletter updating the team and parents on schedule changes, travel information, and other logistical matters.
For individual feedback and conversations, the coach may prefer to schedule in-person meetings or talk by phone. They may also use text or a team messaging app for quick hits and reminders. Find out what their typical response time is for different communication methods.
When it comes to parent involvement, some coaches welcome questions and input from mom and dad. They may set up regular phone check-ins or in-person meetings to keep everyone on the same page.
Other coaches have a strict “player first” policy and prefer that any concerns be raised by the athlete directly before parents get involved. They may even have a communication hierarchy where players are expected to start with an assistant or positional coach before going straight to the head coach.
No matter what the coach’s communication style is, the key is to set shared expectations from the start. You should leave the conversation knowing exactly how and when to get in touch, and what the boundaries are around parent involvement.
If the coach seems disorganized or dismissive about staying in touch, that could signal larger communication breakdowns down the road. The best coaches understand the importance of proactive, open dialogue and will have clear structures in place.
What are your goals for the team this season and in the future?
Understanding the coach’s short and long-term vision for the program is key to seeing if your goals and ambitions align. You want to play for someone who dreams big but also has a practical plan to turn those aspirations into reality.
You can ask: “When you look ahead to this coming season and beyond, what are the main goals and benchmarks you have for the team? Where do you see the program heading in the next few years?” This shows you are invested in the team’s growth and success.
Most coaches will first talk about their concrete aims for the upcoming season. Maybe they want to win their conference championship or make it to the national tournament. They might discuss beating specific rivals or hitting certain statistical marks.
Listen for how ambitious but attainable the coach’s targets seem. Do they have a detailed plan for achieving them? How do they talk about any obstacles or challenges standing in the way? A coach with a clear-eyed view of the work needed to succeed is a good sign.
Just as important as the upcoming season is the coach’s long-range vision. The best coaches are always building toward something bigger and have a multi-year plan to get there. Maybe they aim to become a perennial powerhouse in the conference or build a nationally-recognized program.
Pay attention to how realistic the coach’s long-term goals seem based on the school’s size, resources, and recruiting power. Do they have the institutional support and personal drive to manifest that vision? How do they plan to develop players and elevate the team year after year to reach those heights?
Coaches who only focus on the short-term or fail to articulate a coherent long-range plan may flame out fast. You want to play for someone who balances lofty aspirations with a workable roadmap to sustainable success.
On the flip side, watch out for coaches who rattle off cliches about winning championships without any specifics on how to get there. The best coaches dream big but also have the know-how and work ethic to make it happen. They get you excited about the journey ahead while still being transparent about the process.
Wrapping Up: Investigate Your Future by Asking the Right Questions
By asking college coaches these 10 key questions, you’ll gain a wealth of valuable insight to inform your decision.
You’ll better understand their values, expectations, communication style, and vision for the program.
The answers you receive will paint a vivid picture of what life would be like playing for that coach and attending that school.
You’ll start to imagine yourself in that environment day after day, both on and off the field.
Of course, no one conversation can capture everything.
The best way to make a decision is to gather multiple data points – talk to current and former players, visit campus, observe a practice if you can.
But these questions will help you hone in on the essential information you need to compare programs and coaches.
As you assess the answers, trust your gut instincts.
You’ll naturally be drawn to some coaches and programs more than others.
The clearer you get on your own goals, values, and needs, the easier it will be to recognize an ideal fit.
Remember, this is ultimately your decision to make.
Don’t let a persuasive coach or glossy recruiting brochure sway you from your priorities and non-negotiables.
By doing your research, asking smart questions, and following your intuition, you’ll find the collegiate athletic home that feels authentically right for you.
Invest time in the search process to set yourself up for a rewarding, fulfilling four years.