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Learn the do's and dont's of making a video that coaches will actually watch.
How to Create a Prospect Video
Do not pay to have someone create a video for your child. Unless you’re wanting it done for scrapbook-type purposes, coaches aren’t going to care about the bells & whistles that typically go along with such a video.
Here are the important things that busy college coaches want to see:
1. Put your best skill first.
Think about it. If you’re a busy college coach with very limited time to review a video and the first skill you view doesn’t capture your attention, how likely will you continue watching before moving on to the next one in the pile?
If you’re a pitcher – show 5 views of your best pitch. They won’t need to see 10!
Showing the clip from different angles can add to the value allowing coaches to see your mechanics as well as seeing how the ball moves.
If you’re a hitter – show 5 swings from different angles. The best angle for viewing hitting would be from the side facing the hitter (chest – to – chest).
If you’re a fielder – show a couple different approaches to a ball that forces you to use your feet in different directions. (Right, Left, Forward, Backward) They are also going to want to see how you transition from fielding to throwing.
2. It’s okay and even recommended to show multiple skills but keep your video short. Under one minute is best.
3. Understand that a video is never a “YES” for a coach, but it can be a “NO” for a coach. The video serves you in a way that allows for further investigation by the coach. You’re wanting them to become interested because of what they see.
4. Game Footage v. Practice
Most coaches say a little of both. However, nobody likes to look at game footage if they don’t know who you are (so reference your number or position). Likewise, if mom or dad gets a little excited, they may not be the best person to shoot the video. One of the most common complaints we hear from coaches is how frustrating it is to watch live game footage when the phone is bouncing all over with the view being through one of those little holes in the fence!
5. Provide a link to a reliable source for hosting your video. Most coaches have voiced that they would rather view a video on YouTube or another recognizable online source rather than having to download an attachment.
6. Your music should be optional but never loud. Most coaches that we hear from disapprove of music in the video. Most say that they turn the music off and some have indicated that if the music is too offensive or loud, they stop watching the video. These folks are looking for good ball players and aren’t looking to be entertained.
7. A quick intro showing the athlete introducing herself is fine. Just make sure to keep it short with the following information:
First and Last Name
Graduating Year
Positions
High School / Club Team
A Thank You for the View (This can be done at the beginning or the end.)
8. Along with the video, it’s important to have an accompanying game schedule, and contact information for your coaches. (See last week’s Tip: How to Write Emails to College Coaches)