So, you wanna play college ball? That’s the dream, right? But here’s the thing—talent alone won’t get you there. There are thousands of players grinding just like you. If you really want to stand out, you need to be smart about it.
I’ve worked with athletes who went from being overlooked to getting full-ride scholarships. How? They put in the work, stayed disciplined, and knew how to get on the radar of college scouts.
Here’s how you can do the same.
1. Master the Basics
You might have speed. You might have hands. But if your footwork is sloppy or your technique is off, scouts will move on real quick.
The Fix:
- Clean up your fundamentals—every rep, every practice
- Perfect your footwork, route running, throwing mechanics, tackling—whatever applies to your position
- Watch film. Learn the game. Study the best.
“Scouts don’t care about one crazy highlight. They wanna see if you can do the little things right—every play, every game.” – Coach Calhoun
2. Show You’re Coachable
Look, no one likes a know-it-all. If you’re rolling your eyes at coaches, blaming teammates, or making excuses, guess what? No scout is gonna take a chance on you.
How to Stand Out:
- Hustle—first one in, last one out
- Take coaching without attitude
- Be locked in at practice, not just game day
- Hype up your teammates—leaders don’t just play for themselves
“Colleges don’t just recruit players—they recruit attitudes. If you’re not coachable, you’re not getting that scholarship.” – Coach Calhoun
3. Build a Fire Highlight Reel
Scouts don’t have time to watch full games. If your highlight reel isn’t sharp, they’re not gonna bother.
What Your Reel Needs:
- Best plays first (don’t make them wait)
- Label your name, position, height, weight, and school
- Show different skills—speed, hands, IQ, hustle
- Keep it under five minutes
“If your first 30 seconds don’t pop, they’re clicking off. Put your best plays up front.” – Coach Calhoun
4. Put Yourself Out There
Waiting for a scout to just find you? That’s a losing game. You have to make them notice you.
How to Get on the Radar:
Have your coach or trainer vouch for you
Go to college camps and showcases
DM and email coaches—send your highlights and stats
Keep your social media tight (no dumb posts, just your grind)
“If you want a shot, don’t wait—make some noise. Get your name in front of the right people.” – Coach Calhoun
6. Train Like a D1 Athlete
f you wanna compete at the next level, train like you’re already there. That means weight room, speed drills, and mental toughness.
How to Level Up:
- Get stronger—hit the weights
- Get faster—work on agility and footwork
- Train at game speed—every rep counts
“You don’t get to the next level by wishing for it. You work for it.” – Coach Calhoun
Final Word: Stay Ready
Standing out isn’t about one crazy catch or one big game. It’s about grinding every day, showing up, and proving you belong.
Ready to take your game to the next level?
Join our elite training camps and get real coaching from Coach Steve Calhoun himself.