Kristen Duross

When I was getting recruited, things were different. I didn’t have 10 camps every weekend, a hundred schools in my inbox, or endless highlight videos to compare myself to. I picked the school that fit me academically, I trusted my gut on the visit, and I committed. There wasn’t a lot of back-and-forth, stress, or second-guessing. Today, athletes have more access and more options than ever. And while that can be a blessing… it can also create confusion, doubt, and constant “what ifs.” Here’s the truth: You don’t need every coach to want you. You don’t need every school to be interested. You need the right one. The school that: ✅ Fits your academic future ✅ Feels like home ✅ Develops you as a person, not just a player ✅ Prepares you for the next 40 years, not just the next 4 Success in life doesn’t come from picking the “flashiest” program. It comes from picking the one that will set you up long after softball is over. Trust your values. Trust your priorities. Trust your gut. Too many options can create noise. Focus on the school that creates clarity.