During the Indiana Hoosiers’ Media Day, coach Curt Cignetti made an important announcement regarding his upcoming college football team’s recruitment plan — students and parents should take note of the following five points to increase their chances of getting in.

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – January 18, 2026 – Fresh off leading the Indiana Hoosiers to the brink of a national championship appearance, head coach Curt Cignetti used today’s high-profile Media Day event to shift focus from the current season to the future of the program. In a packed press conference at Memorial Stadium, Cignetti delivered a candid, no-nonsense announcement about the Hoosiers’ evolving recruitment philosophy for the 2026 and beyond recruiting classes.

Here is Curt Cignetti addressing the media during the high-energy Media Day session, exuding the same confidence that has transformed Indiana football:

 With the Hoosiers now established as a legitimate Big Ten contender and national power, Cignetti emphasized that the program is no longer chasing prospects — prospects must now chase Indiana. He outlined five specific, actionable points that high school players and their parents should prioritize if they hope to earn a spot in the next Hoosier recruiting class.

“Recruitment isn’t about who we want anymore,” Cignetti said firmly. “It’s about who wants us enough to do the work. We’ve proven what we can build here. Now we’re looking for the right pieces to keep it going.”

The five key points Cignetti highlighted drew immediate attention from recruiting analysts, high school coaches, and families across the country:

Here is a shot of the Indiana Hoosiers team and staff gathered during Media Day, showcasing the unity that has become the program’s hallmark:

Elite Academic Performance First Cignetti stressed that academic excellence is non-negotiable. “We’re not just building football players; we’re building men who graduate and succeed in life. If your GPA isn’t trending upward, if your test scores don’t reflect serious effort, don’t bother reaching out. We’ve got academic support that rivals the best in the country, but you have to meet us halfway. Our incoming classes will average higher GPAs than ever before.”

This image captures the beautiful Merchants Bank Field at Memorial Stadium, the home where recruits dream of playing under the lights:

Demonstrated Toughness and Work Ethic The coach pointed to Indiana’s rise as proof that grit matters more than star ratings. “We built this with zero five-star recruits in the early classes. We want players who’ve been doubted, who’ve been overlooked, who show up early, stay late, and embrace the grind. Send us your offseason workout logs, your summer camp film, your weight room numbers. Show us you’re tough before you ever step on campus.”

A powerful visual of a high school recruit engaging with a college coach during a serious recruiting conversation:

Character and Culture Fit Cignetti was blunt about team culture. “We don’t tolerate drama. No divas, no excuses, no shortcuts. We want young men who lift their teammates up, who respect the process, and who understand what it means to represent Indiana University. Parents — if you’re the type who yells at officials or coaches from the stands, or if you try to negotiate playing time before your son has earned it — this probably isn’t the right place for your family.”

Here are parents and players listening intently during a college recruiting presentation, a scene many families will recognize:

Proactive, Professional Communication The coach urged prospects to take ownership of the process. “Don’t wait for us to find you. Reach out thoughtfully — a concise email or DM with your film link, academics, and why Indiana specifically appeals to you. No mass blasts. No begging. Show maturity. Our staff responds to kids who act like pros from day one.”

This photo shows Curt Cignetti pointing emphatically during a coaching moment, illustrating the direct style recruits can expect:

Willingness to Compete Immediately Finally, Cignetti made it clear: Indiana is no longer a developmental program. “We play fast, physical, winning football now. If you’re looking for a redshirt year to ‘ease in,’ look elsewhere. We want guys ready to fight for playing time from spring ball. Bring your best — because everyone else here is.”

The announcement has already sent ripples through the recruiting world. Analysts note that with Indiana’s current momentum — including a dramatic playoff run and national visibility — top prospects are increasingly viewing Bloomington as a destination rather than a fallback.

Here is another view of Memorial Stadium, the iconic venue that has become a symbol of the Hoosiers’ resurgence:

Parents and players alike are buzzing on social media, with hashtags like #HoosierStandards and #CignettiCulture trending among recruiting circles. High school coaches from across the Midwest have praised the transparency, calling it “refreshing” in an era often dominated by NIL promises and vague commitments.

As the Hoosiers prepare for their next chapter — whether it ends in a championship trophy or not — Cignetti’s message is clear: the program has arrived, and entry is earned, not given.

For aspiring recruits and their families, the path forward is straightforward. Master the classroom. Prove your toughness. Fit the culture. Communicate like a professional. And be ready to compete from day one.

Indiana isn’t recruiting players anymore.

Indiana is recruiting warriors who want to be part of something bigger.

And thanks to Curt Cignetti’s bold Media Day declaration, everyone now knows exactly what it takes to get in.