September 1st: What Really Happens When the D-I Door Opens

For high school lacrosse players, September 1st of junior year is more than just a date on the calendar. It’s the day the Division I communication door officially opens. Suddenly, years of hard work and preparation turn into phone calls, emails, and the chance to talk directly with college coaches.

But what really happens behind the scenes on this day? Head Coach Sonia LaMonica (University of Virginia) and Assistant Coach Alexis Venetianos (Northwestern University) shared their perspective during a recent Top-Tier Recruiting Q&A.

The Build-Up Before September 1st

Coaches don’t just wake up on September 1st and start dialing numbers. The summer and fall beforehand are filled with evaluations, film study, and building “priority lists.” They’re identifying athletes who not only fit a positional need but also bring the leadership, body language, and intangibles that make a great teammate.

Different Timelines, Different Journeys

Not every school moves at the same speed. Some programs extend early offers, while others prefer to wait months before making their first commitment. For recruits, this can feel stressful, but Sonia reminds athletes:

“Each recruit’s process is their process. It may be faster than you expect, or slower. Both are okay.”

Avoiding the Comparison Trap

One of the hardest parts for athletes is watching teammates commit while they’re still waiting. Both coaches emphasized that comparison is a dead end. The right fit is more important than the first fit.

“Follow the trail of interest,” as Cathy Reese of Maryland once put it. If a program shows genuine excitement for you, lean into that.

What Recruits Should Do

• Be prepared with thoughtful questions.

• Stay open-minded—dream schools aren’t the only schools.

• Understand that no call (or lack of calls) DOES NOT define your worth as an athlete.

Takeaway:

September 1st is the beginning of the recruiting journey, not the end. Whether your phone lights up at midnight or weeks later, stay true to your process, stay patient, and remember: the right opportunity will find you.