Question 1

What does a college recruiting service do?

Accepted Answer

Recruiting services help athletes get exposure to college coaches through highlight videos, profiles, showcase events, and personal connections. They may also offer guidance on timelines, eligibility, and communication strategies.

Question 2

What differentiates On Deck U from other college recruiting services?

Accepted Answer

Our 20+ years of combined experience and personal relationships built with coaches across the country. When we pick up the phone and call, coaches trust our evaluations and recommendations of players because of our track record.

Question 3

Do you guarantee to get me a scholarship?

Accepted Answer

No! We do guarantee to increase exposure and help with the process, but the outcome depends on the player's abilities, academics, attitude, and making the most of their opportunities in front of college coaches.

Question 4

When should I start the recruiting process?

Accepted Answer

Ideally freshman or sophomore year, but serious recruiting activity ramps up during sophomore and junior years. If not committed going into Senior year, the fall becomes an important opportunity for recruiting and scholarship opportunities.

Question 5

What do coaches look for in a recruit?

Accepted Answer

Body type, talent, athleticism, position-specific skills, attitude, coachability, academics (GPA/SAT/ACT), and often metrics like throwing velocity, exit velocity, and 60-yard dash (baseball) or 20-yard dash (softball) times.

Question 6

What kind of video do I need for recruiting?

Accepted Answer

A short, edited skills/highlight video (2–4 minutes) with game footage and skills showcase. Coaches want to see mechanics, athleticism, and repeatability.

Question 7

How important are showcases and camps?

Accepted Answer

Showcases and college-run camps are important. They allow you to perform in front of coaches. Make sure you target events where schools you’re interested in are in attendance, then go show them what type of person and player you are!

Question 8

How do I contact college coaches?

Accepted Answer

Start with an email including your athletic/academic resume, video links, and a personalized message. We help with who to contact, email templates, and strategy. Coaches also use social media, especially “X” (Twitter). It’s important to have a professional page to use as a “resume” for coaches to look at.

Question 9

When can college coaches contact me?

Accepted Answer

Rules vary by division. For D1 baseball, coaches can begin contacting players on or after August 1 of their junior year of high school.

Question 10

What’s the difference between NCAA D1, D2, D3, NAIA, and JUCO?

Accepted Answer

Division I (D1): 
D1 baseball is the highest level of college competition—big schools, elite facilities, and national exposure. Players commit year-round with heavy travel and top-tier coaching.
Scholarships: It was 11.7 scholarships but is now expanding in 2025-26 to allow scholarships for all players on a 34-man roster.
Best For: Athletes with top-level measurables, national showcase experience, and strong academics ready for a full-time baseball commitment.

Division II (D2): 
D2 offers strong programs and talented players with a bit more balance between athletics and academics. Many D2 teams rival lower-level D1 programs.
Scholarships: Up to 9 per team, usually split among players.
Best For: Skilled players who value competition but also want more flexibility and balance in their college experience.

Division III (D3): 
D3 programs don’t offer athletic scholarships, but they still play quality baseball—often competing with D2 or D1 teams. The focus is more on academics and overall college life.
Scholarships: None for athletics, but academic and financial aid are available.
Best For: Players who want to stay competitive while prioritizing school and future career goals.

NAIA: 
NAIA schools compete outside the NCAA but often match or exceed D2 competition. They provide strong coaching, solid facilities, and generous scholarship options.
Scholarships: Up to 12 per team. JV/Developmental team can increase the number of scholarships. Players can be exempt or partially exempt based on GPA, class rank, and ACT/SAT.
Best For: Players seeking competitive baseball with flexibility in academics and scholarships.

JUCO (Junior College):
JUCO baseball is a top route for player development and a stepping stone to D1, D2, or the MLB Draft. It’s competitive, fast-paced, and packed with opportunity.
Scholarships: Up to 24 per team, depending on the division.
Best For: Players looking to develop, improve academics, or earn another shot at a four-year program. For players who want to work hard and reach their full potential. High level of baseball, especially here in Kansas!

Questions & Answers