Campus Visits: What Athletes & Parents Need to Know

When the calls turn into campus visits, athletes and parents step into one of the most important phases of recruiting. Visits—both official and unofficial—are the chance to go beyond highlight reels and Instagram feeds and truly feel what life might be like on campus.

Official vs. Unofficial Visits

• Official Visit: The school pays for some or all of your expenses.

• Unofficial Visit: The family covers travel, meals, and lodging.

Despite the difference in who pays, coaches agree the purpose is the same: to let both sides see if the fit feels right.

Be Authentic

Coaches don’t expect perfection—they expect authenticity. They’re watching how athletes interact with their parents, how they carry themselves, and whether they’re genuinely engaged.

• Don’t hide your personality.

• Be respectful (yes, that means putting your phone away).

• Ask questions that matter to you—not what you think the coach wants to hear.

The Team Test

Current athletes are often the most important part of a visit. They’ll give you the unfiltered version of what life is really like on the team. Ask them:

• What’s the locker room culture?

• What does a normal day look like?

• What’s one thing you wish was different?

The Uniform Myth

Trying on jerseys for flashy photo shoots is fun—but it’s not a guarantee of an offer. Some programs avoid it altogether, saving that privilege for committed players. Don’t overanalyze this detail; it’s not a reflection of how much a coach values you.

Takeaway:

Visits are about people, culture, and fit—not photo ops. Go in prepared, be yourself, and focus on whether you can picture yourself thriving on that campus for four years.