1. Make a Strong First Impression

Be friendly and professional
Punctuality, politeness, and a positive attitude are essential for U.S. coaches. Make sure you’re ready a few minutes before the call and greet the coach with a friendly smile.

Getting to know each other
In the U.S., small talk is an important part of communication. Most college coaches won’t jump straight into the serious part of the conversation. Beyond athletic and academic aspects, they want to see whether you’re a good personal fit for the team – team chemistry is highly valued in college sports.

Show full attention
Choose a quiet setting, avoid interruptions, and put distractions like your phone away. This shows respect and leaves a professional impression.
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2. Prepare Thoroughly

Good preparation is a key factor for success. Before the call, research important information about the university:

• Where is the university located?
• Which degree programs does the university offer?
• Does the university have a strong academic reputation?
• What is the cost of attendance (before scholarships)?
• Which academic requirements do I need to meet?
• Which conference and division does the team compete in?
• What level of athletic performance can I expect there?
• What successes has the team achieved in recent years?
• How much competition is there at my position?
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3. The Call Is Not an Interrogation

A common mistake: athletes only answer questions and rarely ask any themselves. Asking thoughtful, specific questions is a strong sign of genuine interest.

Good questions for an initial conversation with a college coach would be:

• How would you describe your playing or training philosophy?
• What are your goals for the next few years?
• What does a typical week of practice look like during the season?
• Which personality traits do you value most in your athletes?
• Are there many international students at the university and on your team?
• Does the team usually live together? On campus or off campus?
• Are there academic advisors who help student-athletes succeed academically?

If you’re particularly interested, you can also ask the coach to connect you with current players. This is very common and extremely helpful for getting first-hand insights and a realistic picture of college life.
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4. Leave a Lasting Impression – Even After the Call

The conversation doesn’t end when you hang up the phone – your follow-up matters too.

• Send the coach a short follow-up email and thank them for their time.
• Emphasize your interest, even if the school is not your top choice.
• Stay positive and professional – coaches talk to one another.

A strong finish increases your chances of receiving an offer or being invited to further conversations.
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5. Expert Support: You Don’t Have to Go Through the Process Alone

Talking to a U.S. coach can be nerve-wracking – especially the first few times. That’s why Scholarbook provides you with a personal athlete advisor who prepares you thoroughly for these conversations and supports you during scholarship negotiations. Especially when things become serious and it comes down to the exact dollar amount of your scholarship, having a professional by your side is a huge advantage.