Contacting college coaches is a key part of executing a proactive recruiting process. In addition, staying in touch with teammates outside the locker room is essential for building strong relationships. Both are difficult to do if you have an unreliable cell phone. To avoid communication breakdowns, check out these recent cell phone releases, ideal for athletes on the go. [Prices are contingent on contract plans.]

iPhone 4 16GB [Verizon], $200
Specs: 16GB memory, 5.0 megapixel camera, 720p video resolution, 3.5” touchscreen and Skype messaging service
Key Feature: The Verizon Network
Having joined America’s largest 3G network, the iPhone 4 drops fewer calls than its predecessors. Athletes can stay connected longer when talking to teammates or college recruiters.

Samsung Epic 4G, $250
Specs: 16GB memory, 5.0 megapixel camera, 720p video resolution, 4” touchscreen with additional slide-out keyboard and Google Talk messaging service
Key Feature: Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot
The Epic 4G can connect up to five mobile devices to the Internet via Wi-Fi. Great for linking up computers, tablets and other electronics when traveling to away games.

Motorola Droid 2, $200
Specs: 8GB memory, 5.0 megapixel camera, 720p video resolution, 3.7” touchscreen with additional slide-out keyboard, Google Talk and Skype messaging services
Key Feature: Speed
The Droid 2 features a processor with twice as much RAM as the original version. This allows athletes to check their emails, Facebook pages, Twitter and messaging services quickly on the fly.

Sonim XP3300 Force, $525 [without contract plan]
Specs: 16GB memory, 2.0 megapixel camera, 2” screen, text, email and multimedia messaging
Key Feature: Durability
Built to withstand shocks, drops, dust, rough treatment, water and extreme temperatures, the Sonim XP3300 is perfect for athletes who are as tough on their phones as they are on opponents.
Photos:  pixelandmatter.com, devicemag.com, droidmobilize.com, digitaltrends.com, gadget.com