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NCAA’s 2025–2026 Soccer Recruiting Changes:
What Parents Need to Know

If your son or daughter is aiming for college soccer, the NCAA’s new recruiting and scholarship rules, launching in the 2025–2026 season, represent a major shift.

To learn about what’s changing, how it compares to the old system, and the legal context driving these updates, please click the link below to read more about it. It’s important that both you and your athlete understand the changes and steps you should/could be taking.

Your Checklist (Self- Assesment & Research)

To get recruited for college soccer, young players should follow a strategic and proactive approach. Here are key steps to consider:

  • Evaluate Skills: Honestly assess your talent, skills, and physical attributes to determine the appropriate college level (D1, D2, or D3) that matches your abilities. 
  • Research Colleges: Create a list of target schools based on academic fit, soccer program competitiveness, and personal preferences such as location and campus size.

  •  Maintain Strong Academics: Keep grades high to meet NCAA eligibility requirements, as academics are crucial in the recruitment process. 

  • Play Club Soccer: Join a competitive club team to gain exposure and experience, as high school teams alone may not suffice.

  • Create a Soccer Resume: Develop a compelling resume with your achievements, stats, and highlight videos to share with coaches.

  • Contact Coaches: Send introductory emails to college coaches with your resume and video. Follow up with calls if necessary

  • Use Social Media: Leverage platforms to showcase your skills and connect with coaches. 

  • Participate in Camps: Attend college ID camps to improve skills and get noticed by coaches. These events provide valuable networking opportunities.

  • Stay Organized: Keep track of communications with coaches using spreadsheets or dedicated email folders.

  • Official Visits: Schedule unofficial and official visits to colleges of interest to better understand their programs and make a positive impression.

 

Make no mistake, getting recruited is a lot of work, and there are no shortcuts.  Your student-athlete needs to understand and accept the commitment - college coaches are not recruiting parents, and they do not want to hear from you.  The student-athlete has to step up and own this process.

 

ID camps offer exposure to numerous college coaches and include mental performance seminars and personal evaluations. There are four main types you can attand:

  • College/University – Hosted ID camps
  • Multi-College (Third Party) ID Camps

 

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