Recruiting: It’s Never Too Early to Prepare

Afew months ago, I emphasized a simple but powerful message: The time is now to begin the college-rowing recruiting process. That message remains just as important today. Early preparation is not only smart, it’s essential.

For student-athletes in the ninth or 10th grade who are just beginning their journey with a local rowing club or high-school team, now is the perfect time to lay the groundwork. This guidance is equally valuable for both athletes and their families as they prepare for the path ahead.

Begin with Eligibility and Academics

One of the first concrete steps you can take is registering with the NCAA Eligibility Center. Doing so will familiarize you with the core academic courses required for collegiate eligibility. Understanding these requirements early ensures there are no surprises later in your high-school career.

Build a Broad List of Potential Schools

While NCAA rules restrict official and unofficial campus visits until junior year, ninth and 10th graders can and should begin researching programs. Begin building a list of colleges that interest you, and don’t be afraid if that list is long. It’s a starting point. Revisit your list every few weeks, adding new programs and removing others as your interests evolve and your understanding of different schools deepens.

Summer Before Junior Year: Preparation is Key

As the summer before your junior year approaches (when communication with college coaches begins officially), it’s important to stay organized. Move deliberately. Take detailed notes on every conversation, email, or piece of advice you receive from programs. Develop a system that allows you to track each school’s culture, coaching staff, team dynamic, and academic offerings. At this stage, it’s helpful to divide your list into a top and bottom half to focus your energy.

Visits and Narrowing the Field

When you reach the point of scheduling official (paid) and unofficial (unpaid) visits, try to narrow your focus to your top four or five programs. This part of the process can be time-consuming, and investing your time wisely is crucial. Deep engagement with a few schools is often more productive than spreading your attention across too many.

Communicate Your Timeline Clearly

One of the most important, yet often overlooked, aspects of the recruiting journey is understanding that your personal timeline may not align with those of the coaches or programs you’re speaking with. Especially during your junior year, don’t be afraid to communicate your goals and timing clearly. Transparency helps both sides navigate the process more effectively.

For Current Juniors: It’s Not Too Late

If you’re currently a junior and wondering whether you’ve missed your window, the answer is a resounding no. But the time to get organized is now. Create a structured plan, understand your priorities, and move forward with purpose.

Every university operates on its own recruiting schedule. Some programs may extend offers during junior year, while others wait until the fall of senior year. Tough decisions will arise, and it’s wise to prepare in advance. For example, know how you’ll respond to an offer from your second-choice school before hearing back from your top choice. This kind of strategic thinking will serve you well.

Final Thoughts

Recruiting is both exciting and challenging. With preparation, honesty, and a clear plan, you can navigate it with confidence. Whether you’re just launching your high-school rowing journey or already deep in the process, remember: The time is always now to take the next step.

Robbie Tenenbaum coached at the NCAA level for more than 30 years and spent eight years with the U.S. junior national team. Through Robbie Consulting, he now works with student-athletes and their families around the world, helping them navigate the university recruiting process and find the best academic and athletic fit.