In this special Fourth of July episode of Full Ride, host Kito Delgado challenges student-athletes and families to declare academic independence this summer. While most are enjoying fireworks and BBQs, the most dedicated recruits are using this time to improve their GPA, prepare for the SAT/ACT, and take control of the college recruiting process.

Learn actionable tips to stay ahead of the game this summer and boost your recruiting profile by owning your academics, setting a summer routine, and building leverage with college coaches. Whether you're a rising freshman or a senior gearing up for your final year, this episode offers guidance to help you combine your athletic talent with academic excellence — a winning combo that every college coach loves.

In This Episode You'll Learn:

• Why academic independence is crucial for college-bound athletes

• What student-athletes should do during the summer to stay academically sharp

• How to use the summer to improve your GPA and eligibility

• Why taking online classes or test prep courses can elevate your recruiting profile

• How strong academics can lead to academic scholarships and more college opportunities

• How parents can support their student-athlete's summer academic goals

• Why "Smart + Talented = Recruiter's Dream"

• Tips to structure your summer for success — in and out of the classroom

college recruiting tips, student-athlete summer prep, academic independence, GPA for NCAA eligibility, SAT prep for athletes, college coach tips, recruiting during summer, academic scholarships, high school athlete recruiting advice, how to get recruited, Full Ride podcast, Kito Delgado

In this episode of URecruitU, host Kito Delgado shares a complete game plan for student-athletes who want to use social media for college recruiting. Learn how to build a powerful online presence, engage with college coaches, and stand out to recruiters using platforms like Instagram, Twitter (X), YouTube, and TikTok.

Whether you're in the Class of 2025, 2026, or beyond—this episode breaks down the social media strategies that can elevate your exposure, grow your personal brand, and even set the stage for NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals in college.

• How to turn your social media profile into a digital resume

• What to post to attract the attention of college coaches

• How to use YouTube as your personal recruiting channel

• Why documenting your journey builds trust and visibility

• The importance of clean, mature online behavior

• How to use hashtags and tagging to increase exposure

• Tips for building your brand to unlock future NIL opportunities

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June 15 is a key date in the college recruiting calendar—especially for rising juniors.

1. What is June 15?

• Who it impacts: Rising juniors (class entering 11th grade).
• Why it matters: NCAA Division I & II coaches can:
• • Call, text, or email you directly.
  • Begin meaningful, personal recruiting conversations.
  • Start inviting you to unofficial visits or discuss interest.

• Key takeaway: It's not just a date—it's a green light for deeper recruiting contact.

2. How Families Can Prepare (Before June 15)

Here are 5 key preparation tips:

1. Update your recruiting materials
   Make sure highlight tapes, transcripts, and contact info are current and professional.
2. Practice communication
   Prepare how you'll introduce yourself and speak confidently over the phone.
3. Build a school list
   Identify 10–15 schools that match your academic, athletic, and personal goals.
4. Write down good questions
   Be ready to ask things like:
   • What position are you recruiting me for?
   • What does your team's depth chart look like?
   • What is your recruiting timeline?
5. Have a quiet place ready
   Find a calm space to take any calls, away from distractions or background noise.

3. What to Do if a Coach Calls (During and After)

During the Call:

• Be respectful and enthusiastic.
• Listen carefully and take notes.
• Ask thoughtful questions to learn more.
• Don't commit to anything on the spot—just thank them and stay composed.

After the Call:

• Send a short thank-you message or email.
• Talk with your parents, coaches, or mentors about how it went.
• Record the call's details (coach's name, school, what was said) in a tracking sheet.
• Use the info to guide future outreach and follow-up.

4. If No Coaches Call—It's Okay!

• Don't panic. Every athlete's timeline is different.
• Focus on what you can control: Training, grades, exposure.
• Be proactive: Send emails, attend camps, share highlight reels, and introduce yourself to coaches.
• Stay encouraged: Lots of offers and opportunities come during junior and even senior year.

Whether a coach calls or not, the mission is the same: stay ready, stay focused, and keep growing.

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Share this episode with a teammate or parent who needs it.

Follow us @urecruitu for more tips all summer long.

Summer is here, and that means it's officially camp season for student-athletes chasing their college dreams. But showing up isn't enough—you need a game plan.

In this episode of Full Ride, host Kito Delgado breaks down winning strategies every recruit should follow before, during, and after attending college recruiting camps. From choosing the right camps and reaching out to coaches, to standing out during drills and mastering the follow-up, this episode is your ultimate guide to making the most of every opportunity this summer.

Whether you're an underclassman just getting started or a rising senior looking to lock in your offer, this episode will help you compete with purpose and confidence.

✅ How to choose the right camps

✅ What to say to coaches before and after

✅ Tips to stand out during drills and 1-on-1s

✅ Parent advice to support your athlete the right way

Don't waste the summer—win it.

Follow Coach Kito and the show on social- @urecruitu

In this episode of Full Ride, we break down the surprising slide of Shedeur Sanders—son of NFL legend Deion Sanders—to the fifth round in a recent NFL mock draft. More than just a headline, his story holds powerful lessons for every high school recruit and their family. We explore how talent alone isn't enough, and why perception, attitude, and character can make or break your recruiting journey. Whether you're a rising freshman or already getting looks from coaches, this episode will challenge you to think beyond the stats and focus on what really matters. Don't miss this reality check.

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College recruiting doesn't have to be a solo mission. In this episode, coach Kito breaks down the six key people who can help stuent-athletes have a successful recruiting process, including high school coaches, travel ball coaches, guidance counselors, athletic directors, high school alumni, and even fans of the team.

Follow us on social media @urecruitu and share yoru recruiting journey with us.

When it comes to college recruiting, timing is everything. Understanding the recruiting calendar and knowing when to contact coaches, schedule visits, and make key decisions can be the difference between getting noticed and getting overlooked. In this episode of U Recruit U, we break down the different recruiting periods, from early contact to official visits and signing day, so you can stay ahead of the game.

Learn how to plan your approach, stay organized, and make the most of every recruiting window. Don't miss this essential guide to managing your recruiting timeline!

Follow us on social media @urecruitu and share how you're staying proactive in your recruiting journey!

In this episode, Coach Kito dives deep into the sacrafices athletes make when they truly love the game. From giving up social nigts and leisure time topiushing through physical and menatl challenges, we explore how every sacrafice is a stepping stone toward greatness.

Follow us on social media @urecruitu and share ypru story of sacrafice for the love of the game.