In this episode, Susan sits down with Aquiles Montoya, Head Coach at Cal State Northridge, to pull back the curtain on the recruiting process.

From what catches a coach’s eye, to how they evaluate players, to the biggest mistakes athletes make in their emails, Coach Montoya gives candid, insider advice you won’t find on a recruiting website. Whether you’re in the Class of 2027 or already deep in the process, this conversation will help you approach your recruiting journey with confidence and strategy.

Chapters

00:00 – Meet Coach Montoya + his journey to becoming Head Coach at CSUN
02:30 – How recruiting differs between D1, D2, and D3
05:15 – What coaches really look for in highlight videos
08:00 – The difference between interest and a real recruiting relationship
10:45 – Email mistakes that get athletes ignored
13:00 – How much academics really matter
15:30 – Why personality and communication skills are huge for recruiting
18:15 – The impact of social media on recruiting decisions
21:00 – When to follow up with coaches (and how often)
24:00 – Why playing at the right level matters more than chasing a logo
27:15 – The best way to stand out at showcases and tournaments
30:00 – How to know if a program is truly the right fit for you
32:45 – Coach Montoya’s final advice to athletes and parents

Connect with Coach Montoya

Instagram: @aquilesthethird

CSUN IG: @csunwomensvb

Website: https://gomatadors.com/sports/womens-volleyball

Join Susan for a monthly recruiting lesson January-June inside the Volleyball Recruiting School! Become a subscriber here. Or register for January's class all about highlight film here!

Click here for a discount on our go-to, and the hands-down best and most affordable Recruiting Tool + Software we recommend every baller has to increase her efficiency in all that she does 👉🏼 PRODUCTIVE RECRUIT

Want to support your baller in getting her process started and have an experienced volleyball recruiting advisor walk her through it? Enroll in RECRUIT READY: LAUNCH 🚀

Need help getting unstuck in the recruiting process? Apply for a RECRUITING INTENSIVE.

Connect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram: @hey.susank

P.S. If you’re an athlete with big goals, a parent who wants to support the journey, or a coach who cares deeply about your players, this podcast was made for you. Hit subscribe and come grow with us.