D1 Programs Love JUCO Players
Sep 23, 2025
A common statement I hear from D1 recruiting coordinators...
"We love recruiting JUCO players"
Here are 3 reasons why:
1. Age/Development
This is the obvious answer.
Older players are going to be better than younger players.
A player 1-2 years removed from high school is physically and emotionally more mature.
2. Facilities/Gear
College coaches are tired of potential recruits who are more worried about…
- NIL money
- Facilities
- Gear
None of which actually helps you become a better player.
(Ask any MLB player who is from Latin America.)
Players coming from JUCO don’t care about any of that stuff. They just want any opportunity.
They’re used to
- Long van rides
- No extra gear
- Playing in the middle of nowhere
3. Mindset
Many JUCO players just want an opportunity to prove themselves.
They’re willing to put in the work and are playing because they truly love the game.
So, remember...
If you're worried about what the facilities look like, you’ll be competing with someone else on the roster who doesn't care about any of that stuff.
Because he just wants to win.