8: Recruiting Secrets Every Athlete Should Know — Insights from a D1 Coach

In this episode, Susan sits down with Aquiles Montoya, Head Coach at Cal State Northridge, to pull back the curtain on the recruiting process.From what catches a coach’s eye, to how they evaluate players, to the biggest mistakes athletes make in their emails, Coach Montoya gives candid, insider advice you won’t find on a recruiting website. Whether you’re in the Class of 2027 or already deep in the process, this conversation will help you approach your recruiting journey with confidence and strategy.Chapters00:00 – Meet Coach Montoya + his journey to becoming Head Coach at CSUN02:30 – How recruiting differs between D1, D2, and D305:15 – What coaches really look for in highlight videos08:00 – The difference between interest and a real recruiting relationship10:45 – Email mistakes that get athletes ignored13:00 – How much academics really matter15:30 – Why personality and communication skills are huge for recruiting18:15 – The impact of social media on recruiting decisions21:00 – When to follow up with coaches (and how often)24:00 – Why playing at the right level matters more than chasing a logo 27:15 – The best way to stand out at showcases and tournaments 30:00 – How to know if a program is truly the right fit for you 32:45 – Coach Montoya’s final advice to athletes and parentsConnect with Coach MontoyaInstagram: @aquilesthethirdCSUN IG: @csunwomensvbWebsite: https://gomatadors.com/sports/womens-volleyballConnect 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...