What advice do you have for players interested in Division III schools?

Student Athletes must first understand the commitment level and expectations from each college program they are researching. You must make decisions based on whether or not you feel you can compete at that level. You should also consider the quality of your 4 years of collegiate experience.

Your college decision should be based on your major, cost, demographics, class and campus size and the quality of the education you are paying for. Kids tend to be drawn to a school because of the program’s winning success and very often overlook the quality of their education.

Once you have narrowed down your choices (minimum 3-4 colleges) you should visit every school on your radar and make sure you speak with the head coach or coaching staff, current student athletes as well as faculty from the college.

You should choose a school that will allow you to realize your full potential as a student athlete by offering you the best experience possible academically and athletically. You want to ensure the school you choose is the right fit.

What is the best way for players to get on your recruiting radar?

I would say it starts with a simple email to the head coach expressing your interest in the program and the school. This can begin as early as your sophomore year of high school when student athletes begin researching schools and programs as well as the region of the country they would like to attend college. Please keep in mind Division III coaches can’t contact you until you have completed your sophomore year of high school.

Email all the potential coaches on your radar expressing your interest in their programs and then following up with interested coaches. As you enter your Junior year of high school you should let your high school and/or club coaches know your intent for college programs so that they can give you a realistic athletic evaluation.

I would then register for the NCAA Eligibility Center if you expect to be considered for NCAA DI or DII schools or register with a reputable recruiting service.

What type of players do you look for and where?

We try to find the student athlete that will be the right fit for our program. I consider the student athletes character, attitude, competitiveness and academic standards. We are looking for student athletes with a strong work ethic who are willing to work hard and commitment to our playing philosophies. We want student athletes who understand the true concepts of being part of a team.

What areas of player development would you recommend players focus on to elevate their game?

I feel all student athletes should focus on improving their fundamentals. Having sold technical skills at any level will elevate you to the top of your recruiting class. You will be able to get the tactical direction from the program's head coach.

How has the accelerated recruiting landscape impacted your approach to recruiting?

I feel this has given kids more options. However, this now forces coaches to make more informed decisions on which showcases and tournaments to attend as recruiting budgets have got smaller. Our focus is to actively look at the Junior and Senior student athletes, keep track of their success in order to identify the quality programs very various states and region of the country.

Are there any last pieces of advice for players and families you'd like to share?

Both the student athlete and family should do their research.

Be realistic: Get a candid evaluation of your child’s athletic ability and their potential to play at the appropriate level.

Be Educated: understand the recruiting landscape and the commitment levels from each division.

Network: Take the time to speak with other families and students who have gone through the process. The information you have the more informed decision you will be able to make.

Be supportive: Understand how you can help your child throughout this process.

ConnectLAX is a third party recruiting service and not affiliated with or endorsed by Rupert Lewis or Saint Joseph's College of Maine.