How to Prepare, What to Expect, and When to Take Action
When it comes to college golf recruiting, timing is everything. Many families think they have more time than they actually do. The truth is, the recruiting process starts earlier than most expect—and knowing the key dates and phases can help your junior golfer stay ahead of the game.
Below is a breakdown of the typical recruiting timeline and what families can do at each stage to build opportunities for their golfer.
Goal: Build a Foundation
Begin competitive tournament play (local and regional junior tours)
Track stats (GIR, fairways, putts, scoring average)
Start developing a golf resume or online profile
Capture swing videos and store highlights
Consider creating a free digital resume or website
Research academic eligibility (NCAA Eligibility Center)
📝 This is a great time to start building a presence. Even though coaches can’t contact you, they can see your progress and development.
Goal: Get on the Radar
Play in higher-level events (state tournaments, AJGA, HJGT, USGA qualifiers)
Finalize or update your online resume
Begin building your list of target schools
Send personalized introductory emails to coaches
Register for NCAA Eligibility Center (create a free profile)
Optional: Take the SAT/ACT early if aiming for top academic schools
Add your graduation year to all outreach
📬 Start engaging with coaches—even if they can’t reply yet, they’re watching.
Official Contact Can Begin
Division I coaches can begin reaching out via email, phone, social media, and text.
What to expect:
Direct communication from coaches
Phone calls, emails, and questionnaires
Invitations to visit campus or attend prospect camps
🎥 Make sure your swing video and website are ready to share before this date!
Goal: Deepen Connections
Schedule unofficial and official visits
Attend prospect camps
Continue follow-up emails every few tournaments
Keep your site and resume updated
Prepare for mock interviews with coaches
Respond promptly and professionally to inquiries
⚠️ This is when decisions are made. Don’t disappear after June 15—stay visible and proactive.
Goal: Finalize the Right Fit
Some D1 and many D2/D3 programs are still actively recruiting
Submit transcripts, test scores, and applications
Finalize official visits and verbal commitments
Keep updating your results and communicating with interested schools
✅ Even if you haven’t committed yet, it’s not too late—especially for mid-to-lower D1s, D2s, and academic-focused programs.
The recruiting timeline is a marathon, not a sprint. While the process may feel overwhelming, having a plan—and sticking to it—can reduce stress and increase your chances of success.
Stay focused. Keep your profile updated. Communicate often. And most importantly—let your performance speak for itself.