What College & High School Coaches Really Look for in Young Athletes

As a former college basketball coach at UC Santa Barbara and a varsity head coach at the high school level, I’ve seen just about everything when it comes to recruiting and player development. Parents and athletes often focus on the wrong things when it comes to getting noticed by coaches. They believe specializing early, playing year-round, and racking up highlight reels will guarantee a spot on a high school varsity team or even a college scholarship. But the reality? That’s not how it works.

If you really want to help your child stand out in high school and beyond, here’s what actually matters.

1. Athletic Versatility > Single-Sport Specialization

One of the biggest myths I’ve come across is that kids need to specialize in one sport from an early age to make it to the next level. The truth? High school and college coaches prefer multi-sport athletes. Why? Because they develop better overall athleticism, avoid burnout, and bring skills from different sports that make them more dynamic players.

For example, a football player who also plays basketball improves footwork and agility. A soccer player who runs track builds endurance and speed. Playing different sports creates well-rounded athletes—something coaches actively look for.

2. Coachability & Work Ethic Matter More Than Raw Talent

I’ve seen incredibly talented players fail to make a high school varsity team, let alone get recruited for college, because they weren’t coachable. A player who listens, works hard, and takes feedback well is a dream for any coach. Talent can only take you so far—what separates good athletes from great ones is their attitude and work ethic.

Coaches aren’t just looking for who can put up the most points. They want players who hustle, are team-first, and make those around them better. Show a willingness to improve, and you’ll always have a spot on a coach’s radar.

3. Game Film is Important, but Consistency is Key

Yes, highlight reels matter. But what matters more is how a player performs consistently over time. Coaches don’t just watch the best plays—you better believe they’re looking at the full game film to see what a player does when things aren’t going their way.

• Do they pout after a bad play, or do they shake it off?

• Are they engaged when they’re on the bench, or do they check out?

• Do they play defense with the same energy they bring on offense?

Recruiters want to see how athletes handle adversity, how they respond to coaching, and how they contribute when they aren’t the focal point.

4. Character & Academics Can Make or Break a Player

At the college level, a player’s character and grades are just as important as their stats. Coaches don’t want to take risks on athletes who are going to be a problem in the locker room or struggle to stay eligible academically.

At the high school level, the same applies—players with poor attitudes or trouble in the classroom will have a hard time earning a starting spot. Athletes who lead by example, take care of business in the classroom, and represent their team well will always have an edge.

5. Being a Well-Rounded Athlete Means Being a Well-Rounded Person

At the end of the day, sports are just one piece of the puzzle. The best athletes I’ve ever coached were also great teammates, responsible students, and respectful people. Learning how to balance academics, friendships, and personal growth while playing sports is what truly prepares kids for the next level—whether that’s high school, college, or life after sports.

Athletics teach discipline, teamwork, and leadership, but those lessons have to carry over into everyday life. If a young athlete can develop strong character, a solid work ethic, and the ability to handle adversity, they’ll have success far beyond the playing field.

If you’re a young athlete (or a parent of one) hoping to stand out at the high school or college level, focus on what actually matters: developing as a well-rounded athlete and a well-rounded person. Coaches notice the little things more than you think. Want to be recruited? Be the kind of player—and person—every coach wants on their team.