Chasing the Dream

Navigating the college soccer recruiting journey can be exciting, challenging, and sometimes overwhelming. With countless options and expectations to manage, it's easy to feel lost—especially when you're trying to balance academics, athletics, and planning your future.

Whether you're a talented player searching for the perfect program or a parent supporting your child's aspirations, understanding the recruiting landscape is essential for success. This guide breaks down everything you need to know: from building relationships with college coaches to showcasing your skills at the right events.

Let's turn your college soccer dreams into reality!

Time moves quickly, and opportunities can pass by if you stay on the sidelines. That's why it's crucial to keep moving forward with your recruiting process, your game development, and your academics.

You don't want to look back and wonder "What if..."

• I spent an extra hour daily improving my skills
• I reached out to more schools
• I tried making it to the top youth team in my area
• I studied harder
• I spent less time scrolling on social media

Don't let regret win.

Put all your effort into these coming months and years. Play as much as possible. Keep promoting yourself. Maintain good grades. Find joy in the process. And stay optimistic throughout the journey.

Your future self will thank you! 😊

Before diving into the details, take a step back and ask yourself whether college soccer is the right path for YOU (not your parents, friends, significant other, or coaches).

Playing at the collegiate level requires significant commitment. Consider these factors:

Passion for the Game

College soccer is intense. You need to love the game to handle the demands. Ask yourself if you enjoy the daily grind of training and games (even when you get zero playing time). If you're passionate about soccer and can't imagine college without it, collegiate play might be perfect for you.

Balancing Academics and Athletics

College athletes must juggle soccer with academic responsibilities. Practices, travel, and games will consume much of your time. All of your friends going out on a Friday night? You might have to stay in becuase you have Saturday am practice. Everyone going to all-you-can-eat Wednesday? You might have to stay in again to study. You'll need to sacrfice and have excellent time-management skills to succeed both on the field and in the classroom.

Level of Commitment

Different divisions demand different levels of commitment. Division I soccer can feel like a full-time job, with rigorous schedules and high expectations. Division II, III, and NAIA programs, while still competitive, may offer more balance with other aspects of college life. But, no matter the division, you need to be ready to commit to the program and the team.

Career Goals

Consider your long-term objectives. Do you see soccer as a potential career path, or do you want to play for enjoyment while focusing on academics? For a small percentage of players, college can be a stepping stone to professional play. For most, it's about enjoying the game while earning a degree and building an incredible network.

Health and Fitness

The physical demands of college soccer are substantial. You need to be in top shape to compete and minimize injury risks. Consider whether your body can handle the strain, and if you're committed to maintaining the required fitness level.

Social and Campus Life

Being a college athlete will limit some social activities and campus experiences, particularly during the fall season. You may sacrifice free time, weekends, and even some academic opportunities.

👍 PROS OF PLAYING COLLEGE SOCCER:

• Opportunity to develop soccer skills while earning a degree
• Access to high-quality coaching and training facilities
• Chance to compete at a very high level and gain more exposure
• Potential for athletic scholarships and/or merit to reduce tuition costs
• Realizing your lifelong dream

👎 CONS OF PLAYING COLLEGE SOCCER:

• Demanding schedule can make balancing academics and sports difficult
• Limited time for social activities
• Risk of injury that could affect both soccer and academic progress
• Transfers and recruiting could affect playing time year-over-year
• Pressure to perform can be stressful and impact mental health

If you're still excited by the idea of playing college soccer after considering these factors, let's explore the recruiting process!

College recruiting can feel like navigating a complex maze. Understanding the main steps makes it much more manageable.

The process begins with researching programs, understanding different divisions, and building relationships with coaches. Players need to showcase their talent through tournaments, highlight reels, or by attending college ID camps. All these elements work together to create your recruiting profile.

Throughout the process, athletes must maintain strong academics, as coaches highly value student-athletes who excel both on the field and in the classroom.

Timeline by Grade Level

Freshman (9th Grade) 😬

Begin building a strong academic foundation and start researching college soccer programs. Join the most competitive club/league available to you, attend local college camps, and start creating clips for future recruitment.

Sophomore (10th Grade) 🤯

Start reaching out to college coaches after the fall season and attend ID camps for exposure. Continue improving your skills and building your resume with game highlights and any accolades (big or small).

Junior (11th Grade) 😀

This is the critical recruiting year—maintain contact with coaches, visit campuses, and attend showcases. Finalize and distribute your highlights and narrow down your list of prospective schools.

Senior (12th Grade) 🥳

Commit to a program by signing with a college or continue exploring options with walk-on opportunities or lower divisions. Ensure all academic and athletic eligibility requirements are met for college admission.

"Failure happens all the time. It happens every day in practice. What makes you better is how you react to it." – Mia Hamm

Getting recruited requires not just talent but also strategy, persistence, and understanding of the recruiting landscape.

Here are proven tips to help you get noticed by scouts and coaches:

1. Create a Player Profile

Build a digital profile showcasing your soccer accomplishments, academic achievements, and personal information.

Online Recruiting Platforms

Creating a digital profile on CollegeNovo.com helps gain significant exposure. Our platform allows you to build a comprehensive profile that coaches can easily find, featuring your highlight videos, stats, and academic information. Set this up early in your journey—there's no downside to getting started sooner.

Social Media

Use social media to showcase your skills and achievements. It provides a quick glimpse into your soccer abilities and personal life while giving coaches direct access to message you.

2. Make a Highlight Video

Create a 3-5 minute highlight reel showcasing your abilities. Include game footage demonstrating your skills, positioning, work rate, and tactical awareness. Coaches watch these to quickly assess if you're worth recruiting.

What to Include

Make your video easy to watch—add a cover and start with your best moments (goals, assists, tough saves, clean tackles) to grab attention immediately. Upload to YouTube to maximize reach!

3. Attend Tournaments and Showcases

Participating in high-level competitions increases exposure. Coaches often attend national showcases to scout players in person. Email coaches your schedule beforehand.

Your club team will typically schedule and organize showcases. Depending on your league, you should be able to attend some national events. If you play exclusively for your school, consider joining a team or club that needs players.

Communicate with Coaches

Email coaches at least a week before showcases to inform them when and where you'll be playing. This helps them plan and ensures they look for you. Multiple follow-ups are essential—don't leave anything to chance.

4. Start Communication Early

Email coaches expressing interest in their programs. Personalize each message—mention the school, the soccer program, and why you're interested. Include academic information, highlight video link, and your team's schedule.

What to Include in Emails

Each email should briefly introduce yourself, explain your interest in their program, and highlight what you can bring to their team. Include graduation year, GPA, stats, and league information. CollegeNovo.com's AI email assistant can help craft personalized messages that stand out to coaches.

Follow-Up Strategy

Coaches receive many emails, and you're just one of many! If you don't get a response, wait about two weeks and follow up with a friendly reminder. Coaches are very busy so multiple touches are a must.

5. Get Better (don't overlook this)

While pursuing recruitment, focus on improving your game. Work hard to enhance your skills, speed, strength, and mental toughness. All these elements matter at the collegiate level.

To stand out as a college-ready player, you need more than just skills—you need a certain aura about you.

Here's what makes you more scoutable:

1. Academics Matter

Coaches prioritize players who meet academic requirements. A high GPA demonstrates dedication, discipline, and motivation.

Academic Eligibility

Understand NCAA Eligibility Center requirements. Take necessary core courses and maintain a qualifying GPA.

2. Be (Really) Proactive

Coaches appreciate initiative. Consistently update them with your schedule, new highlights, and progress. Include compliments in your emails, like "Great W last night! The attacking was impressive."

3. Improve Physical Fitness

Soccer is demanding, and top physical condition makes you stand out. Work on speed, agility, and endurance.

Level-up Your Training

Follow a structured program including strength, conditioning, agility, and technical work. Start college preparation now—coaches want players ready to compete at the collegiate level.

4. Social Media Presence

Many coaches check recruits' social media to gauge character. Use this to your advantage by sharing accomplishments and demonstrating good character.

Do's and Don'ts

Share highlights, academic achievements, and positive aspects of your soccer journey along with some personal life posts. Avoid content that could negatively affect a coach's perception of you.

5. Showcase Leadership

Coaches seek players who can lead on and off the field. Be vocal and supportive of teammates, and demonstrate a positive attitude during games and camps.

6. React Better to Mistakes

How you respond to mistakes affects coaches' perceptions. Instead of yelling at teammates or kicking the turf, get up and try to win the ball back. The latter shows resilience and maturity.

7. Be a Good Person

Coaches want players who fit their team culture. Maintain a positive attitude during games and be respectful in all interactions. Simply be a good person in every scenario.

"You owe it to yourself to be the best you can be." – Christian Pulisic

"Dreams don't work unless you do." – John C. Maxwell

The college soccer landscape in the United States spans several divisions, each offering a unique experience in terms of competition level, commitment, and resources. Understanding these differences is crucial for finding the best fit for your athletic and academic goals.

Division I

The highest level of competition with the most scholarships available. D1 programs typically require significant time commitment and attract highly skilled players from the U.S. and internationally.

Scholarship Availability

Starting in 2025, Division I programs can offer unlimited scholarships to 28 players (maximum roster size). Previously, men's programs could offer up to 9.9 scholarships per team and 14 for women. These scholarships are often split among multiple players.

Commitment Level

Playing D1 soccer resembles a full-time job. You'll have practices, games, team meetings, and conditioning sessions, leaving little free time for other activities during the season.

Division II

Competition remains high but offers more balance with academics and campus life. D2 schools offer scholarships, though generally fewer than D1 programs.

Athletic Scholarships

D2 schools can offer up to 9 scholarships for men's teams and 9.9 for women's teams. These scholarships attract strong players seeking a healthier balance between sports and academics.

More Balanced Lifestyle

D2 program demands vary considerably but generally have fewer time commitments and games than top-level D1 programs. Still, expect a significant commitment for four months.

Division III

No athletic scholarships, but players can receive academic or need-based aid. D3 programs emphasize a balanced college experience.

Focus on Academics

D3 coaches often prioritize academic performance, and student-athletes typically have more freedom to engage in other campus activities.

Recruiting Process

D3 recruiting emphasizes personal connection and fit with school culture. The process is generally less formal compared to D1 and D2.

National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA)

Comparable to D2 in competition level, NAIA schools provide a smaller college atmosphere with more flexibility in recruiting and eligibility.

Scholarships and Eligibility

NAIA schools offer athletic scholarships with more flexible eligibility requirements compared to NCAA schools, making them viable options for many players.

Junior College (JUCO)

A good option for players wanting to develop skills, improve academics, or gain more exposure before transferring to a four-year program.

Pathway to Four-Year Colleges

JUCO programs allow players to grow athletically and academically before transferring. Some JUCO players later receive scholarships at D1 or D2 schools.

Cost and Accessibility

JUCO programs are typically more affordable, making them practical for players looking to minimize costs while continuing soccer development.

"When you win, you don't get carried away. But if you go step by step, with confidence, you can go far." – Diego Maradona

"Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard." – Tim Notke

NCAA soccer programs have specific rules about roster sizes and scholarship distribution. Here's what you need to know:

Division I Roster Rules

• Maximum of 28 players on roster
• Up to 21 players can receive athletic aid
• No limit on total scholarship amount per player
• Teams can offer partial or full scholarships

Division II Roster Rules

• No maximum roster size
• Up to 9 scholarships for men's teams
• Up to 9.9 scholarships for women's teams
• Can be divided among multiple players

Division III Roster Rules

• No maximum roster size
• No athletic scholarships allowed
• Academic and need-based aid available
• Often larger rosters due to no scholarship limits

Playing Time Considerations

• Most teams carry 24-28 players
• Usually 18-20 dress for games
• Starting lineup of 11 players
• Up to 5 substitutions per game
• Reserve players may see limited minutes

Do the New Roster Rules and Scholarship Limits Affect Me?

They might.

The NCAA recently changed roster limits and scholarship rules for soccer. These changes only affect Division 1.

Summary

• No Scholarship Cap: D1 schools can now offer scholarships to every athlete on their roster. Previously, each sport had specific limits.
• Roster Limits: The NCAA has implemented new roster limits that either match or exceed current scholarship restrictions for each sport.

Potential Impact

If you're a recruit at a top program, you'll face stiffer competition for fewer spots. You'll compete against both your class and collegiate players from the transfer portal. Early offers might be delayed until coaches assess their needs. However, you might receive a larger scholarship. Expect significant changes in the recruiting landscape.

"The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team." – Phil Jackson

A post-graduate year can benefit players needing more time to develop physically, improve academics, or gain exposure.

Many prep schools offer post-grad soccer programs allowing athletes to mature without losing NCAA eligibility.

When to Go Directly to College

Consider going straight to college if:

• You don't plan on playing soccer and have excellent grades
• You want to play soccer and have offers from your top schools
• You believe you can impact the team within a couple of years

When to Consider a PG Year

Consider a post-grad year if:

• Your grades aren't stellar and may be holding you back
• You're young for your grade and still developing physically and mentally
• You're a senior feeling overlooked by recruiters
• Your family can afford it (though some may qualify for aid or scholarships)

Choosing a Prep School

Look for programs with strong soccer traditions, quality coaching, and exposure opportunities. This year should bridge the gap between high school and college soccer.

Some respected soccer programs include:

• Phillips Exeter Academy (Exeter, NH)
• South Kent (South Kent, CT)
• Northfield Mount Hermon (Gill, MA)
• IMG Academy (Bradenton, FL)
• Tilton School (Tilton, NH)
• Peddie School (Hightstown, NJ)
• Berkshire School (Sheffield, MA)

College ID camps certainly help you get in front of coaches! The main drawback is cost—typically $150-$500 per camp, excluding travel expenses.

These camps are often hosted by colleges and give players the opportunity to showcase their skills directly to one or many coaches.

Choose camps aligned with your target schools. Attending gives you a feel for the campus, coaching style, and your potential fit with the program.

Benefits of ID Camps

Attending allows you to receive direct feedback from coaches—invaluable for improving your game during recruitment. It also shows coaches how you interact with other players and respond to their coaching.

Choosing the Right Camp

As a freshman or sophomore, you can explore a wide range of ID camps, including those offered by local colleges during summer.

During junior and senior years, focus on camps at schools where you have genuine interest. Since camps can be expensive, prioritize those at your target schools where you have realistic recruitment chances.

"Play for the name on the front of the shirt, and they will remember the name on the back." – Tony Adams

Before committing to any school, visit the campus to get a better feel for their soccer program.

There are two types of visits: official and unofficial campus visits. Each has its own rules, particularly in NCAA-regulated sports.

Official Visits

An official visit is paid for partially or entirely by the school. NCAA guidelines include:

Expenses Covered

Schools can pay for transportation, meals, lodging, and tickets to sporting events during your visit.

Timing

NCAA soccer recruits can start taking official visits beginning August 1st of their junior year.

Limitations

Recruits can take unlimited visits to different colleges but only one official visit per college (unless there's a coaching change).

Purpose

Coaches use official visits to showcase facilities, introduce recruits to the team, and provide insight into student-athlete life at their institution.

Unofficial Visits

An unofficial visit is paid for by the recruit and family, not the college. These have fewer restrictions:

Expenses

Recruits must cover all costs related to travel, food, and lodging.

Timing

Unofficial visits can happen anytime without specific date restrictions. However, if the visit occurs before August 1st of junior year, recruits cannot have recruitment conversations with coaches.

Purpose

Unofficial visits allow recruits to explore schools at their own expense and get a feel for the campus, athletic facilities, and coaching staff. Many recruits take unofficial visits before official ones to narrow down top choices.

Key Differences

	OFFICIAL VISIT	UNOFFICIAL VISIT
Who Pays?	The school	The recruit and family
Limitations	Unlimited visits, 1 per school	Unlimited visits
Duration	Up to 48 hours	No limit
Timing	August 1 of junior year in HS	Anytime, but no recruiting discussions before August 1 of junior year
Significance	Often indicates strong interest from the school	Typically exploratory to assess fit

Scheduling Your Visit

Plan early to maximize your campus visit. Most programs allow scheduled visits during specific periods.

For college soccer programs, visits typically begin after August 1 before junior year. Be aware of "dead periods" when coaches can't have in-person meetings—usually in August and year-end for college soccer.

Contact the admissions office or soccer program directly to arrange your visit. Fall season visits are ideal when coaching staff is available. Top recruits will receive priority scheduling.

Consider attending practice and/or games during your visit to experience the team's intensity and culture. Prepare a list of questions beforehand to make the most of your time.

Types of Commitments

In soccer recruiting, several types of commitments represent different stages in the process, each with varying levels of formality and obligation.

Verbal Commitment

A non-binding agreement where a student-athlete verbally declares their intent to play for a particular college or university—essentially a handshake deal.

When it happens: Athletes can make verbal commitments anytime during the recruiting process. For top soccer recruits, this happens in the middle of their junior year.

Binding or not: Verbal commitments aren't legally binding for either party. Although frowned upon, either side can change their mind. This makes it an informal step in recruiting.

Purpose: Signals serious interest in attending the school, usually after an offer. Remember, it's not official until both parties sign a written agreement.

Written Commitment (National Letter of Intent)

A formal, legally binding agreement between the student-athlete and college, typically through a National Letter of Intent (NLI).

Note: As of 2024, NCAA Division 1 announced plans to eliminate the NLI but will need to implement an alternative legally binding agreement.

Non-Scholarship (Walk-On) Commitment

A commitment to play without receiving an athletic scholarship. Two types exist:

• Preferred Walk-On: Recruited by the coach with a guaranteed team spot but no athletic financial aid.
• Tryout Walk-On: Not recruited, must try out upon arriving at college with no roster guarantee.

When it happens: Preferred walk-ons may commit alongside scholarship athletes, while tryout walk-ons commit to the school hoping to make the team later.

Binding or not: Typically non-binding unless paired with other agreements.

Commitment to a Non-NCAA Program

Some athletes commit to non-NCAA programs such as NAIA or junior college (NJCAA) leagues.

When it happens: Similar timeline and process to NCAA commitments, though specific rules may vary by organization.

Binding or not: Can be either verbal (non-binding) or written (binding, based on school policies).

Early Commitment

When a student-athlete makes a verbal commitment well before senior year, common among highly competitive recruits.

Soccer players can fund their education through multiple sources, including athletic scholarships and financial aid. Understanding these options is key to making college affordable.

Athletic Scholarships

Awarded by coaches based on field performance, these typically cover part of tuition and are generally awarded annually.

Partial vs. Full Scholarships

Most soccer scholarships are partial, covering a portion of tuition and fees. Full-ride scholarships are rare, typically reserved for top players expected to make immediate impact.

Renewability

Scholarships typically renew annually based on athletic and academic performance. Maintaining good standing with coaches and meeting eligibility requirements is essential.

Financial Aid

Based on family financial situation rather than athletic performance, financial aid comes as grants, loans, and work-study programs.

Need-Based Aid

Many colleges offer need-based aid to bridge the gap between family means and attendance costs. This can include federal, state, and institutional grants.

Merit-Based Aid

Many schools offer merit scholarships for academic excellence or other achievements. Student-athletes can apply for these, especially at Division III schools where athletic scholarships aren't available.

How and When to Apply for Financial Aid

FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential for accessing need-based aid. Complete it as soon as it's available in October of senior year. Many colleges use FAFSA to determine aid eligibility.

Deadlines

Each college has unique financial aid deadlines. Check with each school to ensure timely FAFSA submission. Missing deadlines can reduce aid amounts.

CSS Profile

Some colleges (mainly private) require the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile, a detailed financial aid application for institutional aid. Complete alongside FAFSA if required.

Other Scholarship Applications

Many organizations offer private scholarships based on academic performance, community service, or other achievements. Start searching and applying early, as deadlines vary. These opportunities are often overlooked but can help cover tuition and expenses.

The journey to college soccer requires persistence, passion, and perspective. Remember these key principles:

Be Relentlessly Persistent

The most successful players aren't always the most talented—they're the ones who never quit. Keep reaching out to coaches and improving your game, even when progress seems slow.

Trust Your Unique Journey

Your recruiting path won't look exactly like anyone else's. Some commit early, others find their perfect fit later. Embrace your unique process.

Keep Perspective

While pursuing your soccer dreams, don't forget why you love the game. Build a foundation for your future through academics and leadership that will serve you long after your playing days.

Every college player once stood where you are now. Stay focused, work hard, and believe in yourself—your best soccer days are ahead!

Ready to Take Your Recruiting Journey to the Next Level?

If you're looking for a comprehensive platform to simplify your college soccer recruiting process, we invite you to join CollegeNovo.com. Our all-in-one recruiting solution helps you:

• Build your soccer profile that stands out to coaches
• Find the right schools that match your academic and athletic goals
• Track all communications with coaches in one place
• Discover ID camps that matter for your recruiting journey
• Create personalized emails with our AI assistant

Don't navigate this journey alone. Join thousands of student-athletes who are maximizing their recruiting potential with CollegeNovo.com today!