If you’re a junior golfer—or the parent or coach of one—you’ve likely heard how crucial a golf recruiting video can be when trying to get the attention of college coaches. But not all videos are created equal. Gone are the days of sending a simple swing video from the driving range. Today’s college coaches want more—they want to see how you manage your way around a course. So, how do you create a recruiting video that stands out? We’ve compiled five essential tips to help you produce a video that captures your skills and personality, while giving coaches exactly what they’re looking for.
1. The Importance of Video in College Golf Recruiting
Video has become one of the most powerful tools for junior golfers aspiring to play at the college level. While coaches often receive swing videos from the driving range, these only tell part of the story. Coaches want to see how you handle the real challenges of a golf course—whether it’s course management, tough lies, or challenging pin positions. Recording a 3-hole round gives coaches a deeper evaluation of your on-course abilities. This way, they can see your decision-making process and how you execute your plan, something that swing videos can’t capture.
2. How to Create the Ultimate 5-Minute Golf Recruiting Video
Creating a recruiting video that grabs a coach’s attention doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, the best videos are often simple and authentic. The goal is to produce a 3-hole video that is around 5 minutes long. This allows coaches to see you play in a variety of situations, while keeping the video short enough to hold their attention. Plan ahead by choosing a course and three holes you’re familiar with and enlist a friend or family member to help film. As you record, aim to showcase a range of shots, from the tee to the green, without over-editing or using gimmicks.
3. Tips for Filming a Standout Junior Golf Video
Filming a great recruiting video requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to make sure your video stands out:
- Film in landscape mode for a professional look.
- Ensure proper lighting by positioning the sun behind the camera.
- Capture your short game by filming additional clips around the greens, like bunker shots or chip shots.
- Be consistent with your filming process: Start and stop the camera at each shot, giving coaches a clear and concise view of your round. These tips help create a video that feels professional but still maintains the authenticity coaches value.
4. Why Coaches Want to See Your Course Management Skills
It’s not just about making the perfect shot—it’s about how you get there. College coaches are deeply interested in how you manage yourself on the course. Are you thinking through your shots? Can you handle tough situations? Do you recover well from mistakes? A 3-hole video allows coaches to see how you strategize and execute in real-time. This reveals a lot about your golf IQ, resilience, and composure under pressure—all traits that are critical to succeeding in college golf.
5. The Role of Personality in Golf Recruiting Videos
Finally, don’t forget to show some personality! A great recruiting video is not just about golf—it’s about introducing yourself to the coaches who may one day recruit you. Start your video by introducing yourself and talking about the course you’re playing. Keep your tone conversational and engaging. Remember, coaches want to get to know you, not just your swing. Sharing your thought process, smiling, and showing enthusiasm will help coaches connect with you on a personal level​.
Final Thoughts
Producing a golf recruiting video may seem like a daunting task, but with these tips, you can create a standout 5-minute video that showcases your skills, your thought process, and your personality. By following the simple steps laid out here, you’ll give college coaches the insight they need to evaluate your potential on and off the course.
Now, grab your clubs and a camera—it’s time to shine!
