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If you’ve ever felt like the recruiting process suddenly speeds up and everything happens at once, this episode will help you understand why.
In Part 1 of this conversation, Susan sits down with Keegan Cook, head coach at the University of Minnesota, to talk through how the current recruiting timeline actually works and what’s changed over the years. They break down the June 15th rule, why communication is so limited before that date, and why everything can feel so overwhelming once it opens up.
Keegan shares what recruiting looked like before these rule changes, how the process has evolved, and what college coaches are navigating behind the scenes. You’ll also learn why camps have become such a big part of recruiting and how families can better understand what’s happening during this phase.
If you’re trying to make sense of June 15th and the overall recruiting timeline, this episode will give you important context and clarity.
Guest: Keegan Cook
Keegan Cook is the head coach of the University of Minnesota volleyball program and one of the most respected voices in the college game when it comes to recruiting and player development. Since taking over in 2022, he’s led the Gophers to three straight NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 run, while earning AVCA Region Coach of the Year honors.
Prior to Minnesota, Cook built a powerhouse at the University of Washington with multiple Pac-12 titles, a Final Four appearance, and consistent national success. With experience across club, mid-major, and Power 5 levels, as well as involvement with USA Volleyball, he brings a well-rounded perspective on how the recruiting process works and how it’s evolving for today’s athletes and families.
Chapters
00:00 – Intro and why recruiting feels overwhelming right now
01:30 – Meet Keegan Cook and his perspective on recruiting
04:00 – The biggest issue: limited communication before June 15th
08:30 – How recruiting used to work vs. now
12:30 – Why June 15th changed everything
16:00 – The “floodgates” effect and rising pressure on athletes
19:00 – Why camps have become such a big part of recruiting
22:00 – The gap between June 15th and official visits
24:00 – How families are trying to read interest without communication
26:00 – Why recruiting feels rushed and exhausting
Connect with Keegan:
Instagram: @gophervb
Connect with Susan:
Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com
Follow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susank
Quick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile.
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