Hard to recruit when you’re losing…
To an extent, I agree, but, recruiting is a process.
First, you have to plant the seeds as early as Junior High in order to be successful. In a state with as many colleges vying for talent as Virginia has, you have to broaden the scope considerably and not settle on competing for what's left after UVA and VT has cherry picked the state. We HAVE to recruit nationally...a three hour radius after the BCS has raided the area isn't cutting it.
Second, you have to turn a Saturday Afternoon (Saturday Night which I would prefer) at Robbins into an event...a happening...and not just a football game, Every college in the South, BCS or FCS has a band, a drill team, a color guard, dance team, pyrotechnics, and (most importantly) a filled stadium. Right now, game day is not unlike going to a glorified high school game that gets a little more media attention. Despite the improved infrastructure, it's a very sterile environment.
Third, within the constraints of the NCAA, of course, you have to make official visits to our campus memorable....not only for the athlete, but for the parents/guardians, It's simple...win momma, and you have a huge ally in your corner.
Fourth, I'd love to see us emphasize a walk-on program (especially with high performing academic high schools) and dedicate a scholarship every year to a high performer.
Fifth (and most important) you have to sell the REAL VALUE of a Richmond Athletic Scholarship (and I'm not just talking about it's immediate monetary value). You have to emphasize the off the field accomplishments and successes of former UR athletes in their later life. Stress how a UR Diploma opens up opportunities that others' might not provide. Our scholarships can be transformative. Don't be afraid to say so.
We have something special to offer....we just have to package it correctly.