Introduction
We caught up with Wheaton College Men’s Lacrosse Coach Kyle Hart for a discussion about the Wheaton lacrosse program and what he looks for when recruiting student-athletes.
You can find our conversation below.
Thanks to Kyle for taking the time to educate those interested in Wheaton College!
[ecko_toggle style=”solid” state=”open” title=”Register Here”]Wheaton will be in attendance at the D3 Winter Lacrosse Showcase this January. Click Here To Learn More and Register to the 2017 D3 Winter Lacrosse Showcase.[/ecko_toggle]
The Conversation
What are you most excited about with regards to your program?
Our teams potential both in the classroom and on the field. Our strong team culture and family atmosphere within our program.
What jumps out at you when recruiting? What do you look for in a player?
Toughness, athleticism, speed, quickness, footwork for defenders & stick-work.
What are your “pet peeves” when recruiting?
Lack of effort, finger pointing at teammates when something doesn’t go your way, and selfish play.
What is the best way interested student-athletes should get in touch with you?
Email or fill out our online questionnaire which is located on our website under the recruiting tab. Sending a highlight reel and fall/winter/spring/summer schedule via email is always helpful!
What should student-athletes avoid in their messaging to college coaches?
Try to avoid mass email to a large number of college coaches. Try to make your interest seem as personalized and sincere as possible. Also, try to highlight your team accomplishments. Proofread your emails and make sure you are sending the correct email to the right coach.
How would you describe your coaching style?
I try to be as direct as possible with all of our student-athletes. I believe in setting a high standard for our student-athletes both on and off the field and in the classroom. On the field we want to practice and play fast. We want our players to get as many reps and touches as possible. Positive energy at all times. Team always comes first in anything we do.
Walk us through your timeline when recruiting a student-athlete?
We will begin evaluating sophomores and juniors at fall/winter recruiting events. We will continue to evaluate throughout the summer months. We will typically begin meeting with prospects on campus during either the spring of their junior or during the summer months entering their senior year. We will reach out to prospects via email if we have an interest in them athletically and we focus on those who are responsive or fill out our recruit questionnaire.
We will also conduct visits during the early fall months – these are typically 2nd visits for most prospects who visited during the summer and still have a high interest, sometimes they involve an overnight. We will have our recruiting class finalized by our Nov 1st early decision admissions deadline. ”
What kind of players succeed at your program?
Student-athletes that are are willing to compete everyday do well. High level of athleticism, being coachable and a strong work ethic is always a winning combination for success.
Once again, thanks to Kyle for his time, and best of luck to Wheaton this season!
Coach Hart is one of the many coaches to recruit at our premier showcases. Click below to see the full list of coaches attending our events. Register today!
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