6 Ways to Get Recruited for College Soccer from High School

You can’t get recruited for college playing soccer for your high school.

So, they say.

I’m here to tell you that you can.

What will separate you as a player during the college recruiting process is…

Your skills
Your attitude on and off the field
Your grit and proactiveness during the entire process

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the path to getting recruited for college soccer.

1. Start Early: Develop Your Skills

Skills are everything. Surprisingly, many players and parents overlook this.

Whether you’re aiming for D1, D2, or D3, coaches look for players who stand out in their technical abilities, tactical awareness, and physical fitness.

Focus on fundamentals: Passing, dribbling, shooting, and defending.
Improve fitness: Soccer requires high levels of endurance, quickness, and agility.
Work on your game IQ: Study games and understand different formations and tactical strategies.

Coaches are looking to piece together their puzzle of a team. If your skills fill a gap, you are in great shape to stand out. But, it comes at a price…hard work.

2. Attend College ID Camps

One of the best ways to get on a college coach’s radar is by attending ID camps at their school. These single and multi-day events allow coaches to see prospective players in action.

Summer ID camps: Many universities hold camps during summer. This gives you the ability to travel to them in your offseason.

3. Network and Build Relationships with Coaches

Networking with college coaches is easier said than done. It will require you to get out of your comfort zone.

You’ll have to dial the phone, send emails, and texts. It can seem like a wasted effort but something is better than nothing.

A good rapport with a head or assistant coach can make a huge difference.

Send an introductory email: Mention your interest in joining the team, your background in soccer, and how you can contribute. Here’s a template you can use.
Follow up: Stay in touch with coaches to express your commitment and enthusiasm for the program.
Attend games: Show your support by attending the college’s matches and observing how the team plays.

4. Play For a Local Club After Your Fall Season

Many soccer clubs will start or resume their season after the high school season. This usually happens at the beginning of November.

By joining a club during this time, you’ll be able to train and attend showcases which is important to get seen.

Here are some benefits…

Almost year-round competition: Club teams provide opportunities to play against high-level competition. This is a good way to gauge if you are ready for the next level.
Exposure to college scouts: Many college coaches and scouts attend club tournaments and showcase events. Performing well in these environments can increase your chances of getting noticed.
Skill improvement: Club teams often offer better training and coaching. This gives you the resources to further improve your skills.

5. Maintain Academic Excellence

Having good grades will help your case if you want to play in college. On the flip side, bad grades could repel schools from giving you an offer.

Many college coaches look for well-rounded individuals who can balance the demands of both school and sports. It shows them you are serious and you won’t flunk out if they invest in you.

Focus on your grades: A strong academic record shows responsibility and time management.
Get organized: Balancing soccer, schoolwork, and social life requires good planning and discipline.
Ask for help: Before you fall behind, ask for help from a teacher, advisor, counselor, or parent. It’s crucial to not hide things until it’s too late. It’s okay to lean on help when you need it!

6. Stay Dedicated and Never Stop Improving

The most successful soccer players are the ones who are constantly working on their game.

I’m a big fan of having a long-term mindset and peaking at 25.

Whether it’s during the high school season or in the offseason, staying committed to your craft will increase your chances of being recruited.

Here are some ways you can stay sharp.

Watch game film: Learn from both your mistakes and your successes. Also, watch the pros. Find a player you resemble and follow them throughout the game.
Train everyday: Strength and conditioning are crucial to improve your stamina and injury prevention. The best players will train (in some capacity) at least five days per week.
Find a trainer or training partner: Going at it alone can be taxing. Find a local trainer or teammate to keep you motivated.

Final Thoughts

The way youth soccer is setup, it is easier to get recruited out of club soccer. Clubs usually have great relationships with other coaches and many scouts will attend showcases.

But, for talented players, you can get recruited playing for your high school. Don’t let someone tell you otherwise. It’s just a bit harder.

Use the tips above to start and continue the process.

Remember to be proactive and persistent during the entire process. It’s going to take multiple emails and phone calls to be heard. Don’t give up if this is your dream!