How to Effectively Follow Up with College Golf Coaches
Keep the Conversation going – Follow Up is Key
Sending your first email to a college golf coach is a significant step in the recruiting process, but it’s just the beginning. Effective follow-up is key to maintaining interest and building a relationship with the coach.
This article outlines practical steps on how to follow up after your initial email, ensuring you remain on the coach’s radar and maximize your chances of recruitment. Your approach to how you follow up with college golf coach and assistants, if done with professionalism and in a courteous manner, will help you stand out from others.
Step 1: Timing Your Follow-Up
When to Follow Up: Wait about two weeks after sending your initial email to give the coach enough time to respond. If you haven’t heard back within this timeframe, it’s appropriate to send a follow-up email.
Step 2: Crafting Your Follow-Up Email
Content of the Email: Your follow-up email should be polite and concise. Reiterate your interest in the program and mention any new achievements or updates since your last communication. If applicable, gently remind the coach of any pending questions you had in your initial email. Remember your follow up with college golf coaches should be to the point and informative. Coaches are busy people. Keep it simple and just facts to help remind them of your ability. This indirectly reminds them of your continued interest without being pushy or expecting them to immediately respond. Most coaches or assistant coaches are good about getting back to prospective golfers so if you are courteous professional in your approach they will likely reciprocate and be professional and courteous in their response.
Example Email:
Subject: Follow-up on [Your Name’s] Inquiry – [College Name] Golf Program
Dear Coach [Last Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to follow up on my previous email regarding opportunities within the [College Name] golf program. Since my last email, I have achieved [mention any new achievements or updates]. I am very keen on [reiterate interest in the program] and would appreciate any guidance you could provide on my next steps. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Step 3: Who to Contact in Follow-Ups
Expand Your Contacts: When sending follow-up emails, consider cc’ing assistant coaches, especially if they are involved in recruitment or have interacted with you during events or visits. This ensures that your continued interest is visible to all relevant members of the coaching staff.
Personalize Your Approach: If possible, tailor your communications to address specific coaches by name and role. Mention details that connect with their expertise, particularly if they focus on areas directly relevant to your skills.
Respect the Hierarchy: When writing an email to follow up with college golf coaches, always ensure that the head coach is either directly addressed or cc’ed in your communications. This maintains the respect for the team’s structure and shows your professionalism. Your approach to how you follow up with a head coach and assistants will help you stand out from others. Finally remember, this is part of the impression you are making to people who do not know you. If you are courteous and professional in your contacts with the coaching staff, it serves as an indicator of how you will behave if you are part of the team so make it count!
Step 4: Additional Follow-Up Strategies
Phone Call: If email responses are slow and you feel comfortable, consider following up with a phone call. This can sometimes lead to more direct communication and show your genuine interest in the program.
Participation in Events: Attend any camps, clinics, or showcases where the coach might be present. This can provide an opportunity for face-to-face interaction and to demonstrate your skills live. It is a great alternative to the more tradition email follow up with a coach. There is nothing like an in person meeting and putting a face to the name will separate you from other golfers.
Step 5: Managing the Process
Keep a Record: Maintain a log of all communications with the coach, including dates and key points discussed. This will help you manage follow-ups and ensure consistency in your communications.
Be Patient and Persistent: The recruitment process can be lengthy. Continue to showcase your interest and capabilities, but also respect the coach’s time and schedule.
Final Thoughts on How To Follow Up with College Golf Coaches
For a high school golfer, reaching out to coaches can feel intimidating, and for parents, it can be hard to know how much guidance to give. Think of each message as part of a bigger conversation about your future in college golf. Coaches are busy and receive many inquiries, so showing patience, respect, and consistency demonstrates maturity and commitment. When you follow up with college golf coaches effectively, it leaves a lasting impression that goes beyond your swing or your scores. Other than your initial email and highlight video, this step may be the most crucial in advancing your recruitment prospects. By being proactive, polite, and persistent, you not only strengthen your candidacy but also reassure parents that you are taking ownership of the process. Each thoughtful interaction brings you closer to achieving your collegiate golf goals and shows coaches — and your family — that you are ready for the challenges ahead.
