LaRita H. Wilcher
LaRita Harrington is a visionary tech founder and CEO of Recruit Central, LLC, where she leverages data-driven solutions and artificial intelligence to revolutionize sports recruiting. With a career rooted in firsthand experience as a former Division I recruiting coordinator, LaRita has spent over two decades identifying inefficiencies in the recruiting process and transforming them into actionable technology solutions. Her innovative platform, Smart Recruit AI, centralizes and analyzes vast amounts of data, helping coaches optimize recruiting strategies, prioritize athletes, and make informed decisions with efficiency and clarity.
LaRita’s journey began as a student-athlete in women’s basketball at California State University-Long Beach and Lewis University, where she cultivated a deep understanding of athletic performance and team dynamics. She translated that experience into a successful career in collegiate recruiting, serving at institutions including the University of South Alabama, Louisiana Tech University, and the University of Cincinnati. Recognizing the fragmented nature of recruiting data, she founded Recruit Scheduling Solutions in 2012, which evolved into Recruit Central, a comprehensive platform designed to streamline recruiting workflows and enhance strategic decision-making for coaches nationwide.
Passionate about bridging the gap between technology and human-centered recruiting, LaRita also advocates for AI-powered mental health initiatives within sports, emphasizing the well-being of athletes and staff alike. Her work combines innovation, strategy, and empathy, providing tools that not only enhance recruitment outcomes but also support a healthier, more equitable athletic environment. Through her leadership, LaRita continues to set a standard for integrating cutting-edge technology with practical sports operations, inspiring the next generation of leaders in both tech and athletics.
• California State University, Long Beach- Bachelor's
• Lewis University- Bachelor's
• Palmer House
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my background in coaching, which helped me identify gaps in the recruiting process and develop a platform that makes finding the right candidates seamless.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to know your worth and confidently advocate for yourself.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges and opportunities in my field right now are overcoming self-doubt and recognizing the importance of making informed, data-driven decisions.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are helping others and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.