Recruit to the Real World

Recruit to the Real World

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Recruit to the Real World
Recruit to the Real World
Catch a Coach's Eye in 3 Minutes

Catch a Coach's Eye in 3 Minutes

How to build a highlight tape that D3 Coaches want to watch — not skip

D3Direct
May 21, 2025
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Recruit to the Real World
Recruit to the Real World
Catch a Coach's Eye in 3 Minutes
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👋 Good Morning and welcome back to Recruit to the Real World, your go-to source for reliable information on D3 athletics recruiting & admissions.

Today, we’re breaking down the 5 keys to a making highlight film that will actually get you recruited — no film crew required.

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Build a Highlight that Gets Seen

D3 Coaches don’t want a hype video.

They want proof you can play — and they’ll give you 90 seconds (if you’re lucky).

Here are 5 keys to a making highlight reel that will actually get you recruited - not just stuck in a Coach’s email inbox.


1. Keep it Focused

Your highlight reel = your digital handshake.

It’s the first impression that will land you a campus visit or D3 coach reply, so you want it focused on displaying what actually matters.

Ideal length? 3–5 minutes is perfect per a former D3 Head Coach
Best plays? Up front (more on what Coaches want to see in #4)
Music? Skip it or go with an instrumental track — let your game do the talking

Bottom line: Don't waste time adding crazy edits & special effects to your highlight.


2. How to Get the Film

Here’s how to get the game film you will need to create your highlight tape:

  • Ask your high school coach or athletic director for access to full game film.

  • If your school uses Hudl or another platform, request download access.

  • No team film?

    • Ask a parent or teammate to record your next game or workout — steady, wide-angle shots are best.

    • Or, see if your travel team coach can record your games.

Bottom line: Coaches can’t recruit what they can’t see. Those that can’t scout you in person will need film for evaluation.

women playing volleyball inside court
Photo by Vince Fleming

3. The Tools

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