Back when our student applied there was a section on the application and/or online interest form where you could write down your coach’s contact information. Videos were sent - also an updated video in early February from a tournament because that was “season” for one of the sports. Along with that, expressed major interest in the school/coach.
I think if you are coming from another part of the country/world, it does help to have video. The coach at a NE boarding school may not be familiar with your school.