Here’s the truth: coaches don’t recruit highlight reels — they recruit how she carries herself when things get hard.

In this episode of Signed & Ready, Coach Mel Rushing and Coach Alicia Smith break down the invisible side of recruiting — the part stats can’t show and exposure can’t guarantee.

Because what really gets a player noticed isn’t just talent.

It’s presence.

It’s leadership.

It’s the ability to stay composed, confident, and coachable under pressure.

Whether your athlete is just starting to email coaches or already attending camps, this episode will help her understand what college recruiters are really evaluating every time she steps on the field.

You’ll Learn

• What “presence” actually means (and how coaches define it).
• The body language habits that make or break first impressions.
• How to stand out in camps and tournaments — even when she’s not the loudest or flashiest.
• Why leadership is the deciding factor between being seen and being signed.

Key Takeaway

“Highlight reels get you noticed, but we recruit resilience & grit.”

Coaches recruit players they trust to compete, lead, and elevate the team — and that starts with how she shows up when it matters most.

Listen If Your Athlete...

💥 Feels pressure to be perfect in front of coaches

💥 Struggles to bounce back after mistakes

💥 Wants to stand out but isn’t sure how

💥 Is tired of being overlooked despite her talent

Next Step: Give Her the Edge Coaches Actually Recruit

If your daughter has the talent but isn’t getting traction in recruiting, it’s not because she’s not good enough — it’s because she’s missing the mental edge.

That’s why we created Ready for Offers — a self-paced, on-demand program that helps athletes build the presence, composure, and leadership that turn exposure into real offers.

👉 Get her Ready for Offers today: mentalsweetspot.com/readyforoffers

Because exposure gets her seen — but leadership gets her signed.

Connect with Us

🎧 Subscribe to Signed & Ready for weekly episodes on mindset, leadership, and recruiting for softball players and parents.

💻 Explore programs: mentalsweetspot.com