Learn How to Approach the College Recruitment Process for Soccer Athletes

The time has finally come! You’re in the window where contact with a college soccer coach is permitted, and you can further explore your dream schools and narrow down your list! But, have you thoughts about that first question to ask, what you’d expect your freshman year, or even how the transition from high school to being a soccer student-athlete at the university of your choice would go?

Whether you’re looking for how you’d go about earning your undergraduate degree or you’re curious as to what happens with an injury and rehab, these are all fair questions to ask a coach. With the recruitment process, it’s all about timing and the process. 

• Know what it takes to earn a slot on the roster as a freshman or if the process begins with a potential red shirt. 
• Understand how to succeed within the school’s academic programs and the expectations.
• Student housing questions should be presented and even knowing if you’ll room with teammates or with random students.
• Understand scholarships, official visits, communication during the process and before practice begins, and even the off-season commitments. 
• Familiarize yourself with coaching style, facilities, strengths and weaknesses of the team, biggest need currently with the team, how would I fit in with the current player of your position, conditioning schedules, locker room space, and how many positions are open in the coming recruiting class.
• Ask questions about practices, academic support, goals, and your fit within the team.
• Which camps and showcases the coaching staff may be visiting throughout the year?
  • The more eyes coaches have on you, the better to be able to prove yourself both on and off the field. 

As communication is key, you should know when to email, when to call, and when to ask questions in person. Depending on the time frame, there are limitations set by the NCAA, so check their website for the most up to date information.

There’s no such thing as too many questions, as long as they’re respectful and tasteful. Just like in a job interview, the recruiting process can come down to who made the best first impression, who stood out the most throughout the process, who seemed the most interested, and who would fit best within the program.