Recruiting is a soul-searching process of sorts: you have to be honest with college coaches, and to an even greater extent, with yourself.

First of all, know that it's important to be honest with college coaches. While you don't have to tell them exactly what you're thinking, it's a good idea to be more or less forthcoming. Coaches can often sense whether or not you're being honest with them. It is their job not only to evaluate your abilities, but also to get an understanding of your character. Coaches don't want dishonest kids on their team, to be frank.

As for yourself, you must be practical when you choose colleges to target. Don't just go for the most glamorous colleges. If you're really stretching —- i.e. you're clearly unqualified for a team -— even if you make the team, you may find yourself on the bench for four dismal years.

As it happens, in learning how to get recruited, you often have to first learn a thing or two about yourself.

Challenge yourself athletically, but be realistic and find a place where you know you'll play. If you're not qualified to play at Indiana, North Carolina, Notre Dame, or UCLA, don't waste your time—or theirs. If, however, you are truly a player of that caliber, by all means go for it.

Take advantage of the resources at your disposal. Speak frankly with your high school and club coaches about what they think is an appropriate college sports environment for you. Talk to other people who are connected to college sports and have seen you play. Guidance counselors can offer insight as can recent graduates from your school who play in college.