Playing College Soccer: Part 1 Self Evaluation
This multi-part series aims to educate readers on the college recruiting process and provide valuable tips, best practices, and information. It’s important to note that the process of playing college soccer can vary depending on the division (NCAA Division I, II, III, NAIA, etc.) and the specific recruiting rules and requirements of each organization. It’s recommended to work closely with your high school coach, club team, or contact us (College) to navigate the college soccer recruitment process effectively.
Where to Start?
The college soccer recruiting journey begins with self-evaluation and research. Athletes and parents starting on this path must assess what’s achievable for them both athletically and academically. Two important questions to ask: Am I ready for the demands of being a student athlete? Am I good enough to play college soccer?
College soccer recruiting is highly competitive, spanning various NCAA divisions, NAIA, and junior college levels. Self-assessment plays a significant role in determining one’s readiness to compete at the college level. Athletes should reflect on their overall skill set to determine the level of play that best suits them.
A few tips:
- Engage in open and honest discussions with your current coaches to gain valuable insights into your overall abilities
- Research current college players and compare their resumes/past clubs to your own experiences and achievements.
- Attend or watch game footage of college games to gain a firsthand understanding of the level of play and competition
- Participate in ID camps and clinics that offer athlete evaluations and feedback, which we will discuss in more detail later in the series
It’s crucial for athletes to evaluate their skills, strengths, and areas for improvement to gauge their readiness for college-level. College sports demand a significant time commitment, and student-athletes must ensure they are prepared to handle the rigorous schedule and expectations.
Stay tuned for Part 2 of our series, where we will delve into creating a target list of schools and further steps in the college soccer recruiting process.
