11: Finding the Right Fit in an Unexpected Place (Real Recruiting Stories Part 3)

Every athlete dreams of playing at the highest level — but the real win is finding the place where you can truly thrive.In this final episode of the Real Recruiting Stories mini-series, Susan shares Sally’s journey. Labeled “undersized,” Sally chased Division I dreams and, like so many athletes, would have loved to play D1 if the opportunity was there. But when the calls didn’t come, she found herself building strong connections with high-academic D3 programs instead.Then came the unexpected twist — a call from a nationally competitive Division II program. At first, it wasn’t the path she had imagined, but by staying curious and visiting with an open mind, Sally discovered that this school checked every box: academics, competition, and the chance to grow as both an athlete and a person.Her story is a reminder that while chasing D1 is a worthy goal, it isn’t the only path to success. The real measure of “making it” is finding a program where you can thrive on and off the court — even if it’s not the place you thought you’d end up.This is Part 3 — and the finale — of the Real Recruiting Stories mini-series. If you missed Emily’s or Kelsey’s stories, catch up first, then tune in for Sally’s inspiring conclusion.Chapters00:00 – Why recruiting journeys never look the same 02:00 – The sailboat analogy: finding your own shore 04:30 – Meet Sally: undersized, gritty, and determined 06:30 – The silence from D1 coaches on June 15 08:30 – Strong D3 interest but lingering doubts 09:45 – The curveball: a call from a top D2 program 11:30 – Visiting with curiosity — and shifting perspective 13:30 – Why this school checked every box 15:00 – The takeaway: fit > division 16:00 – Wrapping up the Real Recruiting Stories mini-seriesConnect with Susan:Check out the website: www.nxtvb.comFollow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile. Click the link below to claim your free profile.CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HEREIf you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership. Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort! 😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER...