How to Create Effective Softball Recruiting Videos
What College Coaches Want to See
Before you grab your camera, you need to understand what college coaches are looking for in a recruiting video. They’re not looking for special effects or long introductions—they want to see your skills in action. The goal is to give coaches a snapshot of what you can do and how you might fit into their program.
1. Measurable Skills and Metrics
Coaches love metrics because they provide an objective measure of your abilities. Whenever possible, you should include verifiable metrics in your video:
Overhand throwing speed (use a radar gun if possible)
Pitching speed (again, radar gun is helpful)
Hitting exit velocity (ideally, not off a tee)
Running times (such as home-to-first)
If you can include these numbers while showing the skill on video (like a radar gun visible in the frame while you pitch or throw), that’s even better. This proves to coaches that your numbers are real and not just listed on a resume.
2. Game-Like Situations
While it’s great to show off drills, coaches also want to see how your skills translate to real-game situations. Make sure your video includes footage of you playing in an actual game or scrimmage. Coaches want to see how you handle pressure, your game speed, and your decision-making on the field.
3. Position-Specific Skills
Tailor your video to the position you’re being recruited for. Here’s what you should focus on based on your position:
Pitchers: Show different pitches from multiple angles (side and behind the plate), your fastball speed, and your control of the strike zone.
Catchers: Showcase your pop time (how fast you can throw to second), blocking skills, and receiving abilities. Include throws to second and third base.
Infielders: Highlight your fielding range, footwork, and quick release when making throws. Show throws across the diamond and to bases.
Outfielders: Show your range, arm strength (long throws to third or home), and ability to track fly balls.
Hitters: Include both batting practice and live game swings. Show off your hitting power, contact ability, and plate discipline. Use multiple camera angles (side view and behind the plate) to give a complete picture of your swing.
4. Efficiency and Quality
Coaches don’t have time to watch a 10-minute video from every recruit. Keep your video short and focused—ideally between 3 and 5 minutes. Make sure every clip in your video is high quality and relevant. If you’ve got footage of a great play, but the camera angle is poor or it’s blurry, it’s better to leave it out. Quality matters.
How to Film Your Video
You don’t need a professional film crew to make a good recruiting video. In fact, most successful videos are filmed with a smartphone or basic video camera. That said, there are a few tips that can help you film like a pro, even if you’re just using your phone.
1. Equipment Basics
Smartphone or Basic Video Camera: Any modern smartphone with video capabilities should be more than enough to film a quality recruiting video. Just make sure you’re filming in high resolution (1080p is ideal). But there are dedicated video cameras that you could use too.
Tripod or Stable Surface: Shaky footage is distracting and unprofessional. Use a tripod to keep the camera steady. If you don’t have one, find a stable surface to rest the camera on.
External Microphone (Optional): If you plan to include any spoken parts in your video (such as a brief introduction), an external microphone can help improve sound quality. However, this is optional, as most videos won’t need much audio.
2. Camera Angles
The camera angles you use can make or break your video. Here are the best angles for different positions:
Pitchers: Film from behind home plate (to show your ball movement) and from the side (to show your mechanics).
Hitters: Use a side angle for your swing and a behind-the-plate view to show how you track the ball.
Fielders: For infielders and outfielders, a wide-angle shot from behind the player can show range, while a side angle highlights footwork and arm strength.
Catchers: Film from in front of home plate to show how you receive pitches and block balls. Use a side angle for throws to second.
Make sure the lighting is good and that the field is clear of any distractions. You want the focus to be on you, not on other players or spectators in the background.
3. Include Both Drill and Game Footage
While drills can help highlight specific skills, game footage is essential. Coaches want to see how you perform in real situations, not just during practice. If you don’t have any recent game footage, try to film a scrimmage or an informal game where you can showcase your in-game abilities. The game footage can be as simple as a few at-bats, a couple of defensive plays, or a pitching sequence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creating a recruiting video doesn’t have to be complicated, but there are a few common mistakes that can hurt your chances. Here’s what to avoid:
Long, Unfocused Videos: Keep your video short and to the point. Coaches don’t need to see every play you’ve ever made—just your best ones.
Poor Quality Footage: Blurry or shaky footage can be distracting and difficult to watch. Make sure your video is clear, steady, and focused on you.
Too Much Practice Footage: Drills are helpful, but game footage is more important. Make sure you include clips of actual gameplay, not just practice drills.
Lack of Metrics: If you have strong metrics (throwing speed, exit velocity, running times), make sure they’re included in the video. If not, coaches might assume you’re avoiding showing those numbers.
Putting It All Together
Your recruiting video is one of the most important tools you have in the recruiting process. By showcasing your skills, using the right camera angles, and keeping the video focused and professional, you’ll make a strong impression on college coaches. Remember to update your video regularly as your skills improve and to distribute it effectively through email, social media, and recruiting platforms.
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