Textured lives make prospects more attractive to college coaches

The most successful college prospects, those with multiple offers, build textured lives.

Whether that texture is derived from their involvement in art, music or cultural events, outdoor activities, community volunteering or part-time work, these types of athletes are special to college coaches.

Coaches know that these prize recruits with multi-layered resumes will add far more to their teams and schools than mere athleticism.

When National Scouting Report scouts watch prospects in person, there is no question the athletes must pass the first test — athletic ability.  If it is obvious that a prospect lacks the skills, athleticism, competitiveness and attitude necessary to advance to the college level, then no amount of hyping, hoping or helping will push that athlete into the bright lights of the collegiate ring.

But if a prospect does show the potential to move up, what NSR scouts want to see is a textured life filled with varied interests, dedication to academics and balance. Those attributes combined make an ideal recruit  When an NSR scout finds such a prospect, that scout knows there is already a light at the end of the tunnel for the prospect.

It is human nature for college coaches to want to surround themselves with great people. Whether it is players, assistant coaches, team managers or scorekeepers, head coaches historically achieve greatness when they are able to gather around them excellence in all areas of the program and then develop these individuals into a highly productive, synergistic team.

That is so much easier to accomplish with team members whose work ethic, character and instincts have catapulted them past other recruits who live one- or two-dimensional lives.  Today, coaches want more — and require more.