Understanding the college soccer recruiting process

I'm considering playing soccer at the college level. Can anyone explain the college soccer recruiting process? I'm trying to understand what I need to do to get noticed by coaches.

The college soccer recruiting process starts with self-evaluation. First, determine the level of college soccer that suits you (NCAA Division I, Division II, Division III, NAIA, or Junior College). Consider factors such as your academic profile, the level of competition you want, location preferences, and the size of the school.

Next, you should aim to compile a strong athletic resume and highlight video. The resume should include your contact information, graduation year, GPA, SAT/ACT scores (if the school considers these), academic/athletic awards, club team information, high school team info, relevant stats, and references (like club and high school coaches).

Your highlight video should feature game footage that displays your soccer skills and athletic ability. Coaches usually prefer unedited game footage to skills videos. Be sure to make this easily accessible, like by uploading it to YouTube.

Then, reach out to programs that interest you. Personalize every email to show genuine interest, mention specific reasons why you are interested in their program, and make sure to include your resume and link to your highlight video. Be prepared to follow up if you don't hear back and be patient.

Also consider attending soccer camps, showcases, or tournaments where college coaches frequently scout. This allows the coaches to see your talent firsthand.

Remember, academics play a big part in the recruitment process. Coaches look for athletes who can also excel in the classroom.

Lastly, always keep your club or high school coach in the loop. They can be a valuable resource in reaching out to college coaches and providing a valuable recommendation.

Remember, the recruiting process can be different for each student, school, and coach, so be flexible and open-minded throughout this process and keep a list of options available. The goal should be to find a college that aligns with your academic, athletic, and personal needs. Good luck with your soccer journey!