9: How One Athlete Turned a “Maybe” Into a Full Roster Spot (Part 1, Real Recruiting Stories)

Welcome to the Real Recruiting Stories mini-series, where we highlight the behind-the-scenes journeys of athletes navigating the ups and downs of the college recruiting process. In this first episode, Susan shares Emily’s inspiring path , a story that proves success isn’t always straightforward. After being offered a non-traditional role as a team manager instead of a roster spot, Emily faced a choice: walk away, or step in and keep working toward her dream. Her decision, relentless effort, and unshakable belief turned what looked like a setback into an incredible opportunity, earning her a full roster spot and a chance to thrive at the college level. This episode is a reminder that while the recruiting process can feel uncertain, your success is inevitable if you don’t give up. Chapters 00:00 – Why every recruiting journey looks different 02:30 – The messy middle nobody sees on Instagram 04:45 – Why “your success is inevitable if you don’t give up” 07:20 – The dartboard analogy: what recruiting really looks like 09:40 – Meet Emily: her unique offer and non-traditional path 12:35 – How Emily outworked expectations (and earned trust fast) 14:55 – From manager to roster spot: how she turned it around 16:30 – The bigger lesson: control what you can, believe in yourself 19:30 – Closing thoughts & how this story can guide your journey 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 RECRUIT Want 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. Are you the DIY type? Purchase the GETTING STARTED ACTION PLAN (*note this does not come with Recruiting Software OR 1:1 support) Connect with Susan: Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com Follow on Instagram: @hey.susank P.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.