‘I’m Not Recruitable. Now What?’
It’s not uncommon for high-school seniors to feel anxious about recruiting. Maybe you’ve dreamed of rowing at a varsity level program, but after sending dozens of emails, the responses have been limited—or worse, nonexistent. Perhaps you were in touch with several schools and, suddenly, the communication has gone silent. The questions naturally follow: Did they forget about me? Are they no longer interested but didn’t say so?
The good news is that you still have options, even as a senior.
1. Apply Anyway
Sometimes coaches may hesitate to pursue an athlete because they’re uncertain about admissions. If you’re truly interested in a school, it can be worthwhile to apply regardless. Once admitted, you can reach out again with a fresh update:
“Coach, I wanted to let you know that I’ve just been admitted to your university and would love the chance to learn more about opportunities to walk on to your team.”
Admission can change the conversation significantly,
2. Broaden Your Outreach
If one coach isn’t responding, consider copying others on the staff in your emails. Every coach sees athletes differently, and sometimes another set of eyes on your profile can spark interest and reopen communication. You have nothing to lose by casting a slightly wider net.
3. Pick Up the Phone
Yes — the “cold call” still has value. Call the coach’s office during working hours. If no one answers, leave a short, professional voicemail. Introduce yourself, state your interest, and ask for a convenient time to talk. Direct contact can sometimes get attention when emails don’t.
4. Seek Guidance
If you’ve tried multiple approaches without success, it may be time to consult with your current coach, a trusted mentor, or a recruiting expert who can evaluate your situation and help refine your strategy.
5. Explore Alternatives
If varsity rowing isn’t the path forward, it doesn’t mean the end of your rowing journey. Many universities—including top academic institutions—have competitive club programs that offer meaningful athletic and social experiences. For countless athletes, these programs provide a fulfilling balance of academics and rowing.
The recruiting process can feel uncertain, but you have more options than you may realize. Whether through persistence, strategy, or finding the right environment, there is a place for you to continue your rowing journey.
Robbie Tenenbaum coached at the NCAA level for over 30 years and with the U.S. Junior National Team for eight. He now helps rowers and families navigate the university recruiting process.
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