NCAA Hockey Recruiting FAQs Answered
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How To Get Recruited For NCAA Soccer: Tips From A Pro
03/11/2025•8 minute read
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What Coaches look for
Academic Requirements
Club vs High School Soccer
Playing for Top Clubs
Best Soccer Tournaments/Showcases
Stats & Achievements
Reach out to Coaches
Navigating NCAA soccer recruitment can be overwhelming, but understanding the process is key to getting noticed by college coaches. This FAQ guide covers everything from scholarships and eligibility to ID camps and highlight videos—helping you take the right steps toward playing college soccer.
Dreaming of playing NCAA soccer but unsure where to start? Whether you’re aiming for a Division 1 scholarship or looking for opportunities at the D2 or D3 level, understanding how recruitment works is crucial.
This FAQ guide breaks down the most common questions about NCAA soccer recruitment—covering eligibility, scholarships, ID camps, highlight videos, and how to connect with college coaches. If you’re serious about playing at the next level, this is the information you need to get on the right track.
Let’s break it all down
Your Top NCAA Soccer Recruitment Questions Answered
What Do College Coaches Look for in Soccer Recruits?
College coaches evaluate a blend of technical skills, tactical understanding, physical attributes, and intangibles.
They typically focus on
- Key Player Qualities: Six fundamental traits such as ball control, passing accuracy, and defensive awareness.
- Game Moments: How you perform during attacking plays, defending situations, and transitional phases.
- Decision-Making: Your ability to read the game and make split-second choices.
- Leadership & Coachability: Demonstrating responsibility on and off the field.
Quick Insight
Focus on developing these qualities through targeted training and game experience.
What academic requirements do I need to meet for NCAA eligibility?
For Division I, NCAA eligibility typically requires:
- Minimum Core GPA: 2.3 or higher.
- Standardized Tests: Acceptable SAT/ACT scores based on NCAA guidelines.
Academics are as vital as your athletic prowess. Strong academic performance not only meets NCAA standards but also demonstrates your ability to balance sports and studies.
Remember
Maintaining a solid academic record is key to long-term success in both college and your athletic career.
How important is club soccer vs high school soccer?
Both club and high school soccer play significant roles:
Club vs High School Soccer
- Club Soccer: Offers higher-level competition and greater exposure through national showcases and elite tournaments.
- High School Soccer: Excelling here—especially as a team leader—can also bolster your profile, particularly in areas where you dominate the local scene.
​​Can I get recruited if I don’t play for a top club team?
Absolutely. While playing for a renowned club can boost your visibility, recruitment isn’t limited to elite teams.
Key strategies include
- Highlight Reels: Create a compelling video showcasing your best moments.
- ID Camps: Attend identification camps to gain direct exposure.
- Communication: Consistently reach out to coaches with personalized updates.
Your Unique Path
Even if you’re not on a top club team, your dedication and performance can make you stand out. We guide you on how to build a winning profile.
What are the best soccer showcases and tournaments for recruitment?
Certain events are known to attract college scouts:
- High-Profile Events: Tournaments like ECNL National and MLS Next are excellent for exposure.
- Regional Showcases: These offer competitive environments where many coaches gather to spot emerging talent.
Show Your Skills
Being seen in the right events is key. We help you identify and prepare for the showcases that best fit your profile.
What stats and achievements help a soccer player stand out?
Beyond traditional stats (goals, assists, shutouts, saves, MVP honors), coaches value:
- Consistency: Regular performance under pressure.
- Leadership: Ability to inspire teammates and lead on the field.
- Academic Excellence: A strong academic record enhances your overall profile.
Tip
Keep detailed records of your achievements and always aim for improvement on and off the field.
How should I reach out to college coaches?
Effective communication is essential:
- Personalized Emails: Craft concise messages that highlight your strengths and explain why you’re a good fit.
- Highlight Reel: Include a well-edited video that captures your skills.
- Clear Academic & Athletic Info: Provide relevant statistics and academic achievements.
Communication Is Key
Tailor each email to the specific program. Our program offers step-by-step guidance to help you create impactful outreach messages.
What are common mistakes soccer recruits make?
Some pitfalls include:
- Generic Communication: Sending blanket emails rather than personalized messages.
- Outdated Footage: Relying on old highlight reels that don’t reflect your current ability.
- Neglecting Academics: Failing to maintain strong academic records can hurt your recruitment chances.
- Lack of Follow-Up: Not keeping in touch with coaches after initial contact.
Can I still walk on to a college soccer team if I’m not recruited?
Yes, many programs offer walk-on tryouts. However, success as a walk-on requires:
- Strong Academics: Ensuring you meet the minimum academic standards.
- Polished Highlight Reel: Showcasing your current performance effectively.
- Determination: Persistence and a strong work ethic to stand out in tryouts.
Never Give Up
Walk-on opportunities exist, but preparation is key. Our guidance ensures you’re ready for every challenge, whether recruited or not.
Final Thoughts
Remember, you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Crimson provides a comprehensive suite of services, from academic mentoring and test prep to essay assistance, extracurricular guidance, and career mentoring, ensuring a holistic approach to your college preparation journey.
Author
Luckymore Mkosana
Athletic Development Director & Soccer Strategist
Lucky is a native of Zimbabwe and a U.S. Soccer Federation Talent Scout with a National B Coaching License. A former Dartmouth standout and Ivy League Player of the Year, he earned a BA in International Development and an MBA in Sports Management from Real Madrid Graduate School. Lucky played for teams like Chicago Fire and New York Cosmos and now mentors athletes at Crimson, guiding them through the college recruiting process.
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