What does "recruiting" involve in NCAA sports?

Recruiting in NCAA sports primarily involves the processes and activities aimed at attracting and securing prospective student-athletes to join an athletic program. This integral function encompasses various strategies, such as scouting talent, building relationships with high school coaches, individuals, and families, and offering scholarships and other incentives to persuade these potential athletes to choose a specific college or university to further their academic and athletic careers.

Successful recruiting is crucial as it directly impacts a program's competitiveness and success at the collegiate level, making the ability to identify and secure top talent a top priority for coaches and athletic programs. The focus on prospective student-athletes distinguishes recruiting from other responsibilities that meet different aspects of athletic program management, such as performance tracking, financial management of scholarships, or evaluating coaching candidates.