To get recruited for college soccer, young players should follow a strategic and proactive approach. Here are key steps to consider: Self-Assessment and Research
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.
Here are some of the top soccer college ID camps that can help players attract college coaches. There are others, and in addition, many colleges and universities have their own ID camps.: Exact Sports Soccer ID Camps:
These camps offer exposure to numerous college coaches and include mental performance seminars and personal evaluations.
Future 500 ID Camps: Known for providing exposure to a wide range of college coaches, these camps also offer personalized interactions and game film analysis.
Soccer Academics Hosted by Dartmouth College: This camp provides opportunities to meet top coaches from various divisions and learn about the recruiting process.
IMG Academy Soccer Camps: Renowned for their top-notch coaching and comprehensive training programs, these camps cater to all skill levels and position.
Soccer Masters Prospect Camps: These camps guarantee significant interaction time with every coach present, offering a unique opportunity for players.
EXACT Sports: EXACT is considered a top Soccer Showcase Camp. They have several listed by state throughout the year.
Recommended service to facilitate recruitment: NCSA https://www.ncsasports.org/
Next College Student Athlete (NCSA) is a for-profit organization that connects midland high school student-athletes with college coaches. They also teach student-athletes about the college recruiting process.
