Getting noticed by college coaches starts with a strong letter of intent. A great letter can open doors to athletic scholarships and opportunities that might change your life. The right words, format, and approach make all the difference in catching a coach’s eye.
Ready to craft a letter that stands out from hundreds of others? These 15 examples give you a head start with proven formats and approaches that work for student-athletes across different sports and situations.
Sample Letters of Intent for College Sports
These sample letters show how to present your athletic abilities, academic achievements, and personal character to college coaches.
1. Basketball Player Letter of Intent
Coach James Wilson
Basketball Program
University of Central Michigan
1200 University Drive
Mount Pleasant, MI 48859
Subject: Letter of Intent – Women’s Basketball Program
Dear Coach Wilson,
My name is Tanya Rodriguez, a 5’11” point guard at Westlake High School in San Antonio, Texas. After watching your team’s remarkable conference championship run last season, and learning about your program’s focus on developing complete student-athletes, I am writing to express my interest in joining your women’s basketball program at Central Michigan University.
As a three-year varsity starter averaging 18.2 points, 6.5 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game, I believe my playing style would fit well with your fast-paced offense. My high school coach, Sarah Jenkins (contact: sjenkins@westlake.edu), has helped me develop strong court vision and leadership skills that align with what you look for in your point guards.
Academically, I maintain a 3.8 GPA while taking AP courses in Mathematics and Science. I plan to major in Kinesiology and appreciate your university’s strong program in this field.
My highlight video is available at the link below, and I will be playing in the Texas State Tournament on March 15-17 and the Southwest Summer Classic in Detroit from June 8-10.
Video link: www.recruitme.com/tanyarodriguez
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your program’s continued success.
Sincerely,
Tanya Rodriguez
Phone: (210) 555-7890
Email: trodriguez@email.com
2. Football Recruit Letter of Intent
Coach Michael Thompson
Head Football Coach
State University
500 University Blvd
College Town, TX 75001
Subject: Letter of Intent – Defensive Lineman Position
Dear Coach Thompson,
As a dedicated defensive tackle from Oakridge High School in Dallas, I’m reaching out to express my strong interest in joining your football program at State University for the upcoming fall season.
Standing at 6’3″ and 285 lbs, I’ve developed into a disruptive force on the defensive line, recording 68 tackles, 12 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles during my junior year. Our team finished with an 11-2 record, reaching the state semifinals. Coach Ryan Baker has worked with me extensively on technique and leverage, which has helped me become an effective run-stopper and pass rusher.
Beyond football, I maintain a 3.6 GPA in challenging courses and serve as vice president of our school’s community service club. Your university’s balance of athletic excellence and academic reputation makes it my top choice for continuing my education while playing the sport I love.
I will be attending the Texas Elite Showcase Camp on April 20th and would appreciate any opportunity to connect with your coaching staff. My game films can be accessed at: www.hudl.com/marcusjohnson
Thank you for considering my application. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your program’s defensive line.
Respectfully,
Marcus Johnson
Cell: (214) 555-1234
Email: mjohnson22@gmail.com
3. Soccer Player Letter of Intent
Coach Emily Peterson
Women’s Soccer Program
Coastal University
800 Ocean Drive
Seaside, CA 93955
Subject: Letter of Intent – Midfielder Position
Dear Coach Peterson,
Your team’s creative style of play and commitment to technical excellence has made Coastal University’s soccer program stand out to me throughout my college search. As a central midfielder with strong passing abilities and field vision, I believe I would thrive in your system.
During my three years as a varsity starter at Ridgewood High, I’ve developed into a complete midfielder who contributes both defensively and offensively. Last season, I recorded 12 goals and 16 assists while being named First Team All-Conference and team MVP. As team captain, I’ve worked to bring out the best in my teammates both on and off the field.
My club team, FC Northwest, competes in the Elite Clubs National League, where we’ve faced top competition from across the country. My club coach, Lisa Martinez (phone: 555-987-6543), can speak to my work ethic and leadership qualities.
Academically, I challenge myself with honors courses while maintaining a 3.9 GPA. Your university’s Environmental Science program aligns perfectly with my academic goals.
I will be playing in the West Coast Showcase Tournament in San Diego on May 15-17 and would welcome the chance to have you see me play. My highlight video is available at: www.youtube.com/amygarcia
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to potentially becoming part of your successful program.
Sincerely,
Amy Garcia
Phone: (415) 555-2468
Email: agarcia@student.com
4. Swimming Recruit Letter of Intent
Coach Thomas Clark
Swimming and Diving Program
Lakeview University
300 Campus Circle
Lakeside, MI 49085
Subject: Letter of Intent – Freestyle Specialist
Dear Coach Clark,
As a dedicated swimmer who has followed Lakeview University’s impressive program development under your leadership, I’m writing to express my interest in joining your team next fall.
Currently, I hold school records in the 50m freestyle (22.31) and 100m freestyle (48.75) at Riverdale High School. Last season, I placed 2nd at the State Championships in both events and was part of our gold medal 4x100m freestyle relay team. My times have steadily improved each season, and I’m focused on dropping below 48 seconds in the 100m before graduation.
My club coach, David Wilson at Riverdale Aquatics (dwilson@riverdaleaquatics.org), has helped me refine my technique and develop a training regimen that has allowed me to compete at increasingly higher levels. I’ve learned to balance my academic responsibilities with the demands of year-round swimming.
With a 3.7 GPA and particular strengths in science courses, I’m interested in studying Biology at Lakeview. The combination of your university’s strong academics and competitive swimming program makes it an ideal fit for my goals.
I will be competing at the Midwest Regional Championships in Chicago on December 10-12 and would appreciate the opportunity to connect with you or your staff.
Thank you for considering my interest in your program. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to Lakeview’s swimming success.
Respectfully,
Jason Martinez
Phone: (312) 555-3698
Email: jmartinez@email.com
5. Volleyball Player Letter of Intent
Coach Sarah Johnson
Women’s Volleyball Program
Mountain State University
450 University Heights
Denver, CO 80210
Subject: Letter of Intent – Outside Hitter Position
Dear Coach Johnson,
Your volleyball program’s reputation for developing complete players and competing at the highest level has inspired me to reach out. After watching your team’s conference championship match last season, I’m even more convinced that Mountain State would be an ideal place to continue my volleyball career.
As a 6’0″ outside hitter at Crestview High School, I’ve worked to become a six-rotation player who contributes in all aspects of the game. My junior season statistics include 387 kills, 245 digs, 45 blocks, and 32 service aces. Our team finished as state runners-up, and I was honored to be named to the All-State Second Team.
My club experience with Rocky Mountain Volleyball Club has exposed me to high-level competition and helped me develop a deep understanding of the game. Coach Patricia Lee (contact: plee@rmvc.org) has been instrumental in my growth as a player and can speak to my work ethic and coachability.
Academically, I maintain a 3.85 GPA while taking college preparatory courses. Your university’s strong Psychology program aligns with my academic interests and career goals.
I will be competing at the Colorado Showcase Tournament in Boulder on January 28-30 and the National Qualifier in Dallas on March 15-17. My skills video is available at: www.volleyrecruit.com/alexisbrooks
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing how I might contribute to your program’s continued success.
Sincerely,
Alexis Brooks
Phone: (720) 555-9876
Email: abrooks@crestview.edu
6. Track and Field Athlete Letter of Intent
Coach Robert Martinez
Track and Field Program
Eastern University
1500 Campus Drive
Philadelphia, PA 19122
Subject: Letter of Intent – Sprinter/Jumper
Dear Coach Martinez,
After following Eastern University’s track program and seeing the tremendous development of your sprinters, I am writing to express my interest in joining your team as a sprinter and long jumper.
My personal bests include 10.78 in the 100m, 21.65 in the 200m, and 23’4″ in the long jump. This past season, I won the state title in the 200m and placed second in both the 100m and long jump. As team captain, I helped lead our squad to its first regional championship in school history.
My track coach, William Greene, has helped me develop proper technique and a strong work ethic. Despite dealing with a minor hamstring issue early in my junior year, I’ve learned valuable lessons about injury prevention and proper recovery that have made me a more complete athlete.
With a 3.5 GPA and strong performance in math and science courses, I’m interested in pursuing Engineering at Eastern. Your university’s balance of academic excellence and athletic opportunity is exactly what I’m looking for in my college experience.
I’ll be competing at the Penn Relays in April and the East Coast Championships in May. My performance videos can be viewed at: www.trackprofile.com/tylerwalker
Thank you for your consideration. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to Eastern’s track program while pursuing my education.
Respectfully,
Tyler Walker
Phone: (267) 555-4321
Email: twalker@oakmont.edu
7. Tennis Player Letter of Intent
Coach Jennifer Adams
Women’s Tennis Program
Bayside University
200 Shoreline Drive
Santa Barbara, CA 93106
Subject: Letter of Intent – Tennis Scholarship Consideration
Dear Coach Adams,
As a four-star recruit with a UTR rating of 10.2, I’m writing to express my interest in joining the Bayside University tennis program. Your team’s reputation for technical development and competitive success makes it an ideal fit for my goals as a student-athlete.
Throughout my high school career at Westridge Academy, I’ve played #1 singles and have maintained a 42-7 record over the past two seasons. I recently reached the semifinals of the Southern California Regional Championships and won the San Diego Open 18U division last summer.
My tennis development has been guided by Coach Maria Sanchez at Elite Tennis Academy, where I’ve trained for the past five years. She has helped me develop an aggressive baseline game with a strong forehand and consistent serve. Coach Sanchez (msanchez@elitetennis.com) can provide additional insights about my game and character.
Academically, I challenge myself with AP and honors courses while maintaining a 3.9 GPA. Your university’s Communications program particularly appeals to me as I look toward my future career goals.
I will be competing in the Pacific Coast Championships on March 10-12 and would welcome the opportunity to meet with you. My match footage and training highlights can be viewed at: www.tennisrecruiting.net/sophiakim
Thank you for your consideration. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your program’s success while receiving an outstanding education at Bayside.
Sincerely,
Sophia Kim
Phone: (619) 555-8642
Email: skim@westridge.edu
8. Baseball Player Letter of Intent
Coach Daniel Rodriguez
Baseball Program
Midwestern State University
900 University Avenue
Springfield, IL 62704
Subject: Letter of Intent – Right-Handed Pitcher
Dear Coach Rodriguez,
Your baseball program’s commitment to pitcher development and competitive success in the conference has stood out to me throughout my college search. As a right-handed pitcher with a passion for the game and strong work ethic, I hope to become part of your team’s future success.
At Lincoln High School, I’ve been a varsity starter for three years, developing into our staff ace with a 9-2 record, 1.78 ERA, and 87 strikeouts in a strong baseball conference. My fastball sits at 88-91 mph, complemented by a changeup and developing curveball that have become reliable off-speed options.
My summer baseball coach, Tony Miller with the Springfield Spartans (tmiller@spartans.org), has helped me refine my mechanics and develop mental toughness on the mound. Our team finished runner-up in the state tournament last summer, where I earned two complete-game victories.
With a 3.6 GPA and strong performance in mathematics, I’m interested in pursuing Business Administration at Midwestern State. Your university offers the perfect combination of academic quality and baseball opportunity.
I will be pitching at the Midwest Prospect Showcase in Chicago on December 5-7 and would welcome the chance to demonstrate my abilities. Video of my recent performances is available at: www.baseballrecruit.com/ryancooper
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to discussing how I might contribute to your program’s pitching staff.
Respectfully,
Ryan Cooper
Phone: (217) 555-1122
Email: rcooper@lincolnhs.edu
9. Lacrosse Player Letter of Intent
Coach Andrew Phillips
Men’s Lacrosse Program
Northeastern University
350 Huntington Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
Subject: Letter of Intent – Midfielder Position
Dear Coach Phillips,
As an admirer of Northeastern’s lacrosse program and academic reputation, I’m writing to express my strong interest in joining your team as a midfielder for the upcoming season.
During my three years playing varsity lacrosse at Lakeside Academy, I’ve developed into a two-way midfielder who contributes offensively (28 goals, 15 assists last season) while taking pride in my defensive responsibilities. As team captain, I helped lead our team to the state semifinals and was named First Team All-Conference.
My club coach, Brian Williams with New England Elite (bwilliams@neelite.com), has helped me refine my stick skills, lacrosse IQ, and conditioning. Playing against top competition from across the region has prepared me for the challenges of college lacrosse.
Academically, I maintain a 3.75 GPA in a rigorous college preparatory curriculum. Your university’s Business program particularly appeals to me as I look toward my career goals.
I will be playing in the Northeast Showcase in Hartford on November 12-14 and the Winter Classic in Philadelphia on January 8-10. My highlight film can be viewed at: www.laxrecruiting.com/michaeldavis
Thank you for your consideration. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your program while receiving an excellent education at Northeastern.
Sincerely,
Michael Davis
Phone: (617) 555-3355
Email: mdavis@lakeside.edu
10. Golf Recruit Letter of Intent
Coach Patricia Thompson
Women’s Golf Program
Southern University
700 University Boulevard
Atlanta, GA 30332
Subject: Letter of Intent – Women’s Golf Team
Dear Coach Thompson,
As a passionate golfer with a 1.8 handicap and tournament experience across the Southeast, I am writing to express my interest in joining Southern University’s women’s golf program.
Throughout my high school career at Pinecrest Academy, I’ve maintained an average score of 75.3 and have won three regional tournaments. This past summer, I placed 4th in the State Junior Championship and 6th in the Southeastern Junior Classic against strong competition.
My golf development has been guided by PGA Professional Mark Johnson at Oakland Hills Golf Club, who has helped me build a consistent swing and develop the mental aspects of my game. Coach Johnson (mark@oaklandhills.com) can provide additional insight into my abilities and work ethic.
With a 3.8 GPA and strong performance in science courses, I’m interested in pursuing your university’s well-regarded Biology program. Southern University offers the perfect balance of academic excellence and golf opportunity that I’m seeking.
I will be competing in the Southern Junior Invitational on March 20-22 and would welcome the opportunity to connect with you or your staff. My tournament results and swing videos can be viewed at: www.juniorgolf.net/emilythomas
Thank you for your consideration. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to Southern’s golf program while pursuing my academic goals.
Respectfully,
Emily Thomas
Phone: (404) 555-7788
Email: ethomas@pinecrest.edu
11. Hockey Player Letter of Intent
Coach Kevin O’Brien
Ice Hockey Program
Northern University
100 University Way
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Subject: Letter of Intent – Forward Position
Dear Coach O’Brien,
After watching Northern University’s impressive hockey season and learning about your program’s focus on speed and skill development, I am writing to express my interest in joining your team as a forward.
As a center for Lakeville North High School, I’ve developed into a two-way player who contributes offensively (22 goals, 31 assists last season) while taking pride in my defensive responsibilities. Our team reached the state quarterfinals, and I was honored to be named to the All-Conference team.
My youth hockey coach, Steve Anderson with Minnesota Elite Hockey (sanderson@mnelite.org), has helped me develop my skating, puck handling, and hockey sense through years of training. Playing against top competition has prepared me for the challenges of college hockey.
Academically, I maintain a 3.7 GPA while taking challenging courses. Your university’s Business Management program particularly interests me for my future career plans.
I will be playing in the Minnesota Elite Showcase on December 15-17 and the Midwest Tournament in Chicago on January 20-22. My highlight video is available at: www.hockeyrecruit.com/alexjohnson
Thank you for your consideration. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your program while receiving an excellent education at Northern University.
Sincerely,
Alex Johnson
Phone: (612) 555-9900
Email: ajohnson@lakevillenorth.edu
12. Cross Country Runner Letter of Intent
Coach Rebecca Martinez
Cross Country Program
Western University
800 Campus Drive
Portland, OR 97201
Subject: Letter of Intent – Distance Runner
Dear Coach Martinez,
Having followed Western University’s cross country program and its recent conference championship, I am writing to express my interest in joining your team as a distance runner.
At Highland Park High School, I’ve developed into a consistent performer with personal bests of 15:32 for 5K and 9:24 for 3200m. This past season, I placed 3rd at our state meet and helped lead our team to a regional championship. My times have steadily improved each season as I’ve increased my training volume and intensity.
My coach, James Wilson (jwilson@highlandpark.edu), has helped me develop proper training habits, race strategy, and mental toughness. Through his guidance, I’ve learned to train consistently while avoiding injuries and balancing academic demands.
With a 3.85 GPA and particular strengths in science and mathematics, I’m interested in pursuing Engineering at Western. Your university’s strong academic programs alongside its competitive cross country team makes it an ideal fit for my goals.
I will be competing at the Regional Championships on November 18 and the National High School Cross Country Championships on December 10. My race videos and results can be viewed at: www.runnerspace.com/davidchen
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to discussing how I might contribute to your program’s continued success.
Respectfully,
David Chen
Phone: (503) 555-1212
Email: dchen@highland.edu
13. Wrestling Recruit Letter of Intent
Coach Michael Stevens
Wrestling Program
Midwest University
400 University Drive
Columbus, OH 43210
Subject: Letter of Intent – 165-pound Weight Class
Dear Coach Stevens,
As a dedicated wrestler who has followed Midwest University’s program success, I am writing to express my strong interest in joining your team in the 165-pound weight class.
Throughout my high school career at Washington High, I’ve compiled a 112-18 record, including a 42-3 mark as a junior when I placed 2nd at the state championships. I’ve developed a well-rounded style that combines strong neutral position wrestling with effective top control and defensive skills from bottom.
My wrestling coach, Tom Garcia (tgarcia@washingtonhs.edu), has helped me refine my technique and develop the mental toughness needed for success. Through extensive off-season training, including freestyle and Greco-Roman competition, I’ve continued to expand my wrestling abilities.
Academically, I maintain a 3.6 GPA while challenging myself with honors and AP courses. Your university’s excellent Physical Education program aligns perfectly with my career goal of becoming a coach and teacher.
I will be competing at the Midwest Classic Tournament on December 8-10 and the National Prep Showcase on January 15-16. My match footage can be viewed at: www.trackwrestling.com/jacobwilliams
Thank you for your consideration. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your program’s tradition of excellence while pursuing my education at Midwest University.
Sincerely,
Jacob Williams
Phone: (614) 555-6789
Email: jwilliams@washington.edu
14. Softball Player Letter of Intent
Coach Jennifer Roberts
Softball Program
Pacific University
900 Ocean Drive
San Diego, CA 92110
Subject: Letter of Intent – Catcher Position
Dear Coach Roberts,
After watching your team’s impressive run to the conference finals last season, I am writing to express my interest in joining Pacific University’s softball program as a catcher.
During my three years as varsity catcher at Ridgeview High School, I’ve developed strong defensive skills (98% fielding percentage, 42% caught stealing) while contributing offensively (.362 batting average, 8 home runs, 37 RBIs last season). Our team reached the state semifinals, and I was named First Team All-Region.
My club coach, Tracy Anderson with West Coast Elite (tanderson@wcesoftball.org), has helped me refine my game-calling abilities and work with pitchers effectively. Playing year-round against strong competition has prepared me for the challenges of college softball.
With a 3.7 GPA and strong performance in science courses, I’m interested in pursuing your university’s highly regarded Marine Biology program. Pacific University offers the perfect combination of academic excellence and softball opportunity.
I will be playing in the California Showcase Tournament on January 14-16 and the West Coast Classic in Los Angeles on March 10-12. My skills video is available at: www.softballrecruit.com/oliviaparker
Thank you for your consideration. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your program’s success while receiving an outstanding education at Pacific.
Respectfully,
Olivia Parker
Phone: (619) 555-2345
Email: oparker@ridgeview.edu
15. Field Hockey Player Letter of Intent
Coach Elizabeth Taylor
Field Hockey Program
Eastern State University
500 University Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Subject: Letter of Intent – Midfield Position
Dear Coach Taylor,
As an admirer of Eastern State’s field hockey program and its commitment to excellence both on and off the field, I am writing to express my interest in joining your team as a midfielder.
Throughout my high school career at Oakwood Academy, I’ve developed into a well-rounded midfielder with strong defensive abilities and the capacity to contribute offensively (14 goals, 20 assists last season). As team captain, I helped lead our squad to the state finals, earning First Team All-State honors along the way.
My club coach, Rachel Wilson with Philadelphia Field Hockey Club (rwilson@pfhc.org), has helped me develop my technical skills, field vision, and tactical understanding. Competing against top teams from across the region has prepared me for the challenges of college field hockey.
Academically, I maintain a 3.8 GPA while taking AP and honors courses. Your university’s Nursing program is highly regarded and aligns perfectly with my career goals.
I will be playing in the Eastern Regional Tournament on December 3-5 and the National Indoor Championship on February 12-14. My highlight video is available at: www.fieldhockeyrecruit.com/hannahbrown
Thank you for your consideration. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your program while receiving an excellent education at Eastern State University.
Sincerely,
Hannah Brown
Phone: (215) 555-4477
Email: hbrown@oakwood.edu
Wrap-up: Sample Letters for College Sports
Writing a strong letter of intent requires showcasing your athletic abilities, academic achievements, and personal character in a clear, professional format. These sample letters give you templates to adapt for your own situation.
Keep these key points in mind:
- Research the program and coach before writing
- Highlight specific stats and achievements
- Include academic information
- Provide video links and upcoming competition dates
- Keep the letter concise and professional
- Follow up appropriately
With careful preparation and the right approach, your letter of intent can be the first step toward an exciting college sports career. Take the time to customize these samples to reflect your unique strengths and goals as you reach out to coaches at your target schools.