Show notes
If you’ve ever felt like the recruiting process suddenly speeds up and everything happens at once, this episode will help you understand why.In Part 1 of this conversation, Susan sits down with Keegan Cook, head coach at the University of Minnesota, to talk through how the current recruiting timeline actually works and what’s changed over the years. They break down the June 15th rule, why communication is so limited before that date, and why everything can feel so overwhelming once it opens up.Keegan shares what recruiting looked like before these rule changes, how the process has evolved, and what college coaches are navigating behind the scenes. You’ll also learn why camps have become such a big part of recruiting and how families can better understand what’s happening during this phase.If you’re trying to make sense of June 15th and the overall recruiting timeline, this episode will give you important context and clarity.Guest: Keegan CookKeegan Cook is the head coach of the University of Minnesota volleyball program and one of the most respected voices in the college game when it comes to recruiting and player development. Since taking over in 2022, he’s led the Gophers to three straight NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 run, while earning AVCA Region Coach of the Year honors.Prior to Minnesota, Cook built a powerhouse at the University of Washington with multiple Pac-12 titles, a Final Four appearance, and consistent national success. With experience across club, mid-major, and Power 5 levels, as well as involvement with USA Volleyball, he brings a well-rounded perspective on how the recruiting process works and how it’s evolving for today’s athletes and families.Chapters00:00 – Intro and why recruiting feels overwhelming right now01:30 – Meet Keegan Cook and his perspective on recruiting04:00 – The biggest issue: limited communication before June 15th08:30 – How recruiting used to work vs. now12:30 – Why June 15th changed everything16:00 – The “floodgates” effect and rising pressure on athletes19:00 – Why camps have become such a big part of recruiting22:00 – The gap between June 15th and official visits24:00 – How families are trying to read interest without communication26:00 – Why recruiting feels rushed and exhaustingConnect with Keegan:Instagram: @gophervbJoin Susan for a monthly recruiting lesson January-June inside the Volleyball Recruiting School! Become a subscriber here. Or register for January's class all about highlight film here!Click here for a discount on our go-to, and the hands-down best and most affordable Recruiting Tool + Software we recommend every baller has to increase her efficiency in all that she does 👉🏼 PRODUCTIVE RECRUITWant to support your baller in getting her process started and have an experienced volleyball recruiting advisor walk her through it? Enroll in RECRUIT READY: LAUNCH 🚀Need help getting unstuck in the recruiting process? Apply for a RECRUITING INTENSIVE.Connect with Susan: Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com Follow on Instagram: @hey.susankP.S. If you’re an athlete with big goals, a parent who wants to support the journey, or a coach who cares deeply about your players, this podcast was made for you. Hit subscribe and come grow with us.