Recruiting Process for Current HRS Athletes

Every year, the School sends around eight students to play a varsity sport at the collegiate level. This opportunity is earned, not given, and it requires hard work and dedication. So what exactly is the recruiting process like for these athletes? 

Tiko Moodie, a Senior, is committed to the University of Denver for soccer and gave his opinion on what his recruiting process was like. Moodie has played soccer for 11 years, going through five different clubs, and committed after a year of talking to coaches.

Moodie commented: “The truth is that unless you’re nationally ranked, and noticed by national and academy teams, the colleges won’t come to you. It takes a lot of repetitive emails, reminding them about your upcoming tournament, game highlights, and just check-ins on how their season is going.” 

However, factors may limit an athlete’s opportunity to shine and put a display on for coaches. During a pivotal tournament in Texas, Moodie was ejected in the first 50 minutes of the game, limiting his exposure to major colleges and affecting potential commitments. Although his ejection was a major setback, it helped narrow down colleges that were genuinely interested in him. 

When asked what prompted him to commit to the University of Denver, Moodie responded: “Denver stuck by me this whole time, even after me telling them I wasn’t sure they fit into what I wanted. So, as time went on and I got to know the coaches better…Once I went on my visit, even with two other visits lined up for other D1 schools, I knew it was the place for me.” 

Hailey Hilsabeck, senior volleyball prospect, is bound to commit soon. When asked who helped her during the process, Hilsabeck responded, “My friends helped me the most because we could relate to each other and went through similar struggles. This was important to me because it made me feel supported and not alone during a difficult process.”

Overall, the recruiting process is bound to have ups and downs. The best thing to do is control what you can: push yourself with personal training, school, and everything related to this process. As Hilsabeck advised: “Cast a wide net and just put yourself out there. Keep an open mind but definitely figure out what you value the most in a school. There are so many great schools and there is a place for everyone.”