Lindenwood’s Division I Transition: What does Head Coach Kyle Gerdeman have to say?

Overall impact on recruiting

There is a step up in competition between Division I and Division II, so fans might anticipate that recruiting styles might change slightly through both levels. But Coach Gerdeman assured me there will be many aspects of the approach that will remain constant.

He explained, “Even at the Division II level, we are still looking for division I level players.” He continued, “You don’t lose the type of people you recruit.” Coach Gerdeman preached an emphasis on how players fit the program will remain a top priority, with high character players being heavily sought after. Still, there are changes to be aware of, some of which involve differences in recruiting periods between the two levels.

To make up for this, Gerdeman noted that the organization of the staff must be more meticulous. “The thing that changes the most is your recruiting organization.” With less time, the staff must communicate effectively and start noting players that could help the program later on down the road. Still, the current players in the program remain of focus, and Gerdeman is well aware of how their lives might change because of the transition to the OVC.