As parents, we never where to begin as far as the recruiting process is concerned. We might ask ourselves how involved should we be or should not be, should we push our child, or should we let them figure things out on their own. Nether the less it is a stressful time, and we as parents just want to be the most informed on the recruiting process as possible. 2aDays sat down with Cathy Michalowski, a parent of two children that have played Division I softball. Cathy said the recruiting process was a smooth one for her. Because of this, she can be an excellent resource for parents who are currently helping their child through the process. 

2aDays: Did you go to college? If not, did you find it difficult to guide your child through the recruiting process?

Cathy: No, but I went to hairdressing school. Yes, I found it difficult because I did not know much about the college process.

2aDays: Did you find that your child's sport had a different way to go about the recruiting process than speaking to parents of other sports?

Cathy: No, I didn't really talk to anyone else that was being recruited for a different sport.

2aDays: Did you ever have doubts about your child's ability to play in college? If not, did you have a different idea of what division they should be looking at versus the one they were looking at?

Cathy: No, because I knew the level of competition and talent because I have had a daughter that played D1 softball. I knew my daughter could handle it.

2aDays: Should parents play a significant role in helping their child get recruited, or do you think they should not help at all?

Cathy: I felt that this was my child's job, but I was there to support her 100 percent. They have to play at a high level for the coaches, so it is on the child to perform well.

2aDays: Did you find yourself taking a big role in helping your child with the recruiting process? 

Cathy: No, I think the student-athlete has to put in the effort towards being recruited.

2aDays: Were academics more important than athletics in your child's decision-making?

Cathy: Absolutely. It is nice to have an excellent program to play at, but education is the most critical part of the college process.

2aDays: How big of a role did your child's ability to receive a scholarship—academically or athletically—play in the recruiting process?

Cathy: It is important, they have to be a good student, and they have to be talented enough to play Division 1 sports.

2aDays: What qualities were you looking for in the coaches?

Cathy: Someone that would take care of her and look after her, especially since we would not be there with her.

2aDays: What is one thing you do not regret while helping your child/children through the recruiting process?

Cathy: I do not regret anything.

2aDays: What is one piece of advice that you would give future parents in helping their child get recruited?

Cathy: The most important thing is education. Look for a good school that fits your child's educational needs best.

2aDays: What is one thing that you know now that you wish you knew during the recruiting process?

Cathy: I wish I knew that the travel team coach does not play a significant role in the recruiting process for your child. Both my kids were recruited through camps.

* Originally published on May 18, 2017, by Nicolette Michalowski