If you're a high school soccer player with aspirations to play at the college level, you may be wondering how to get noticed by college coaches and earn a spot on a team. The recruiting process can be daunting, but with the right approach and a bit of hard work, you can increase your chances of landing a spot on a college soccer team. Here are some tips for how to get recruited for college soccer teams:
Starting Putting in the Effort Early
It's never too early to start thinking about college soccer. In fact, many coaches begin scouting players as early as freshman year. So, make sure to start getting your name out there by attending college showcase events and tournaments, and by reaching out to coaches via email or phone.
Never Be Satisfied With Your Skill Level
To get recruited for college soccer, you need to be an excellent player. Spend time working on your technical skills, such as passing, dribbling, shooting, and defending. Focus on your fitness and conditioning, too. Coaches want players who are in top physical shape and can keep up with the demands of the game.
Record Your Greatness
A highlight video is a great way to showcase your skills and abilities to coaches who may not be able to see you play in person. Make sure to include a mix of game footage and individual skills, and keep the video short and to the point.
Bring Your Talents To Them
Many colleges offer soccer camps during the summer, which can be a great opportunity to meet coaches, get a feel for the school, and show off your skills. Attending a camp can also help you build relationships with coaches and get a sense of what it's like to play for the team.
Show the Initiative
Don't wait for coaches to come to you. Take the initiative to reach out to coaches, send them your highlight video, and introduce yourself. You can also ask your high school coach to make an introduction or write a recommendation letter on your behalf.
It's Not A Cliche, Keep Your Grades Up
College coaches not only want great players, but they also want players who are dedicated to their academics. Make sure to keep your grades up and take challenging classes to show that you're serious about your education.
Stay Patient
The recruiting process can be a long and arduous one, so it's important to be patient and persistent. Keep working hard on your game, stay in touch with coaches, and don't get discouraged if you don't hear back right away.
In summary, getting recruited for a college soccer team requires a combination of skills, hard work, and persistence. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of catching the eye of college coaches and earning a spot on a team. Remember to start early, develop your skills, make a highlight video, attend camps, be proactive, keep your grades up, and be patient. Ultimately, the key to success in the recruiting process is to stay committed to your goals and stay focused on your passion for the game. Best of luck on your journey to playing college soccer!