Preparing to Play Softball at the Collegiate Level — 2026 Edition

Called the “Bible of Fastpitch Recruiting” by youth coaches everywhere, this book (updated annually) has been a trusted resource for softball families and coaches for 25 years!

Preparing to Play Softball at the Collegiate Level provides readers with a step-by-step guide to the college search. It discusses what’s expected of college players and how to decide if playing in college is right for you; what it takes to be academically eligible; how to start contacting college coaches; how to identify your “wow factor” schools; how to showcase your softball skills in a video; what to expect during the recruiting process; and the facts about scholarships and financial aid. It includes a list of over 1200 colleges with softball teams and much, much more!

Who should use this book? Preparing to Play Softball at the Collegiate Level is essential for softball players who dream of playing in college, for parents who need to understand the realities of recruiting, for youth coaches who want to help their players conduct a successful college search, and for High School Athletic Directors and counselors who need a simple, but comprehensive recruiting guide for their student athletes.

About the Author
Preparing to Play Softball at the Collegiate Level was written by noted recruiting consultant Catharine Aradi. Over the past 25 years, Ms. Aradi has helped thousands of would-be college softball players find the colleges—and teams—that were right for them! (You can visit her website at www.fastpitchrecruiting.com)

Here’s what readers say about her book:
“Cathi Aradi’s book on softball recruiting is a game-changer for parents, players, and coaches alike. With insightful guidance, strategic advice, and a wealth of experience, Aradi empowers individuals involved in the recruiting process. Her comprehensive approach equips readers with the tools to navigate the complex world of softball recruitment successfully. A must read for anyone looking to elevate their understanding and make informed decisions in the competitive realm of college recruiting today.” — Mike Candrea: Former Head Coach, The University of Arizona (8 Time NCAA National Champions); USA Olympic Head Coach 2004 & 2008

“A must read for every high school coach, travel ball coach, softball parent, and most importantly, every
young player who aspires to play college softball. Cathi Aradi helps you navigate the ever changing
recruiting scene for your benefit. Please know that there is a place to play in college for everyone-find yours with the help of this great book!” — Jay Miller (retired): Hall of Fame Coach; USA National Team Coach; Div. I Head Coach

“This book helped guide our family through the complicated maze of collegiate recruiting and finding the right school for our daughter.” — Parents of a Division I college player

“Recruiting can make parents and players confused, frantic and anxious. This book kept us on track, reminded us of our goals, and provided many good insights. It was money well spent.” — Parents of an Ivy League student-athlete

"Ms. Aradi seems to know literally everything about how the college search works, and she has no agenda
other than helping young women find the right place to play softball in college if that is their dream!” — Parent of a Div. III college player

“I tell everyone who will listen that you have to buy this book. It's really the best softball recruiting investment you can make!” — Parent of a Div. II college player