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.susankwww.rallysend.comLooking for a better way to stay organized and manage your recruiting? Check out www.rallysend.com—our go-to recruiting software for athletes, families, and clubs. It streamlines communication with college coaches, saves hours on recruiting outreach, and helps you stay ahead of the biggest challenge in the recruiting process: time.Use code HEYSUSAN to save $5/month on a monthly subscription or $50 off an annual plan.