GETTING RECRUITED

Are you a talented soccer player dreaming of playing at the collegiate level? Look no further! Here are some invaluable tips to boost your chances of being recruited by a top-tier college.


First and foremost, start by creating an impressive player profile showcasing your skills, accomplishments, and academic achievements. Reach out to college coaches by sending personalized emails, highlighting why you would be a great fit for their team. Attending college soccer camps and showcases can provide invaluable opportunities to showcase your abilities in front of numerous coaches simultaneously. It is crucial to maintain good grades and stay on top of academic requirements, as many coaches prioritize athletes with a strong academic standing. Lastly, keep refining your skills through constant practice and seek constructive feedback to further enhance your game. With determination, hard work, and these tried-and-true tips, you'll be well on your way to joining a stellar college soccer program

COMMUNICATE
WITH COACHES

An important step in the college recruitment process is for players to contact coaches on their own. Coaches would much rather spend their time evaluating players that have expressed a genuine interest in attending their college. Coaches also find it helpful to have a general idea as to if a player will fit into the academic environment of their school (most coaches will want to know GPA and intended major). 

Prior contact from players not only helps to attract coaches to a particular tournament but it also increases the likelihood that a coach will view one of your team's games during the tournament. Contacting coaches is a critical part in a student's effort to be recruited to play in college.

What coaches look for

College Coaches appreciate and are more interested in players that have done some research before they initiate communication. A general statement that you are interested in their program, in most cases, is not good enough and will not capture the attention of a coach, who routinely receives hundreds of emails. Be specific about what you like about the college as well as what you have learned that might attract you to the soccer program that is offered. Again, coaches are looking for players that have a genuine interest. If your email looks like it went out as a mass distribution, a coach is less likely to take notice.

Be particular and concise about the information that you provide. A coach does not need to hear your life story in an initial contact. Also, avoid using commonplace, general statements. Coaches want players to be selective, not only in the schools that a player decides to contact but also in the information that a player provides.

HOW TO CONTACT COACHES

Contact information for coaches is always available on the college's website. Search in Athletics (sometimes in the "Student Life" area). Most programs have a specific online recruiting form that players fill out. In addition, the coach's email address will be listed on an Athletics Staff Directory page.

  • Sample Email to send to a College Coach

    I want to introduce myself as a potential player in your program. My name is ______________ and I play for the Eastern FC _______________. I am interested in learning more about your school and soccer team. I play _____________ (position) and am number ________.


    Below is my schedule of college showcases as well as my league schedule. I would like for you to see me play and if you are going to be able to make any of my games, please let me know.


    (You should also take the time to write a sentence or two personalizing this email. You can congratulate the coach on their previous season, a birth to the NCAAs, All-Academic players, something you are very interested in academically at the school, something about the school that really interests you, etc. The more personal you make it, the more seriously you will be taken as a potential candidate.)


    *IF YOU HAVE A VIDEO LINK YOU CAN INSERT IT HERE AS WELL (This becomes helpful in the initial introduction as the coach can take a quick peek at your ability)


    Once again, thank you for your time, and I look forward to speaking to you soon. Attached you will find my profile with all the necessary contact information.


    Sincerely,


    ______________________


    Finally, please keep track of the schools you email and the responses you get. Please keep track of the contact information so you can easily access it. You can also call the coaches to leave a message or speak to the coach directly.

Recruting 101

Your talent, skills and hard work have put you in a position to be recruited. 

Here are 3 steps that are an essential part of the recruiting process:

STEP 1:

START EARLY

Start early, stay eligible, and keep your grades up beginning at your Freshman year of High School.


Work on keeping your GPA above a 3.0 and get involved with clubs as well as within your community. Coaches look for well-rounded individuals that will represent their program and their school well.


Be aware of the information you post on the internet. Coaches routinely check social media sites and even google prospective recruits.

Step 2:
Promote Yourself

You must contact the coaches first! College coaches have come to expect that you will take the initiative to begin the recruiting process.


Promote yourself to coaches with cover letters, updated sports resumes, and sports videos that specifically highlight your achievements.


Create your initial list of colleges and research their athletic programs.  Have your skills objectively evaluated and work with your coaches on which level of collegiate play is best for you.

STEP 3:

BE PREPARED

Respond immediately to any material that is sent to you. Make as many visits as you can and don't hesitate to call them.


Ask the coaches about their programs. Be prepared to talk to coaches on the phone and explain to them your future plans and ask specifics of their program and how it will impact your collegiate career.