9: How One Athlete Turned a “Maybe” Into a Full Roster Spot (Part 1, Real Recruiting Stories)

Welcome to the Real Recruiting Stories mini-series, where we highlight the behind-the-scenes journeys of athletes navigating the ups and downs of the college recruiting process.In this first episode, Susan shares Emily’s inspiring path,  a story that proves success isn’t always straightforward. After being offered a non-traditional role as a team manager instead of a roster spot, Emily faced a choice: walk away, or step in and keep working toward her dream.Her decision, relentless effort, and unshakable belief turned what looked like a setback into an incredible opportunity,  earning her a full roster spot and a chance to thrive at the college level.This episode is a reminder that while the recruiting process can feel uncertain, your success is inevitable if you don’t give up.Chapters00:00 – Why every recruiting journey looks different02:30 – The messy middle nobody sees on Instagram04:45 – Why “your success is inevitable if you don’t give up”07:20 – The dartboard analogy: what recruiting really looks like09:40 – Meet Emily: her unique offer and non-traditional path12:35 – How Emily outworked expectations (and earned trust fast)14:55 – From manager to roster spot: how she turned it around16:30 – The bigger lesson: control what you can, believe in yourself19:30 – Closing thoughts & how this story can guide your journeyConnect 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...