The Reality of College Soccer Recruiting: Players Must Recruit Coaches, Not the Other Way Around

One of the biggest misconceptions about college soccer recruiting is that coaches are out there searching for players to bring into their programs. The reality? Players need to recruit the coaches. If you sit back and wait to be discovered, you’re likely going to be waiting forever.

I’ve seen too many talented players assume that their skill alone will be enough to attract attention. They assume if they play well in a tournament or showcase, the right coach will just magically appear. That’s not how it works. College soccer is an incredibly competitive landscape, and if you’re serious about playing at the next level, you need to take control of your own recruiting process.

Why Players Must Be Proactive

College programs don’t have unlimited resources to scout every potential recruit. Yes, they do some recruiting on their own, but the majority of their time is spent evaluating players who have already expressed interest in their program. They’re looking for athletes who not only have the talent but also the drive, communication skills, and commitment to be part of their team.

If you want to play college soccer, the responsibility is on you to research schools, reach out to coaches, and make sure they know who you are. Your goal isn’t just to be seen—it’s to be seen by the right programs that fit you athletically, academically, and personally.

The Right Way to Recruit a College Program

Every player’s recruiting journey will be different, but there are a few key steps that apply to everyone:

1. Identify the Right Schools - Too many players focus only on the “big-name” schools without considering whether those programs are actually the right fit. Be realistic about your playing level and think about what matters beyond soccer—academics, location, team culture, scholarship opportunities, and coaching philosophy.
   

2. Reach Out First - Don’t wait for coaches to find you. Send personalized emails to introduce yourself, share your highlight video, and explain why you’re interested in their program. Make it easy for them to evaluate you by providing upcoming game schedules and key details about your playing experience.
   

3. Show Up Where They Are - Attending ID camps, showcases, and tournaments where your target schools are recruiting is key. But just showing up isn’t enough—make sure coaches know you’re going to be there, and follow up afterward to keep the conversation going.
   

4. Keep Up the Communication - A one-time email won’t get you recruited. Stay in touch with coaches, update them on your progress, and show genuine interest in their program. If a coach isn’t responding, don’t assume they’re not interested—sometimes persistence is what gets their attention.
   

5. Prioritize Academics - Your grades matter more than you think. Many college programs won’t even consider an athlete if they don’t meet their school’s academic standards. Strong academics also open up more scholarship opportunities and make you a more attractive recruit.

   
   
   
   

Finding the Best Fit

One of the most important things I tell my players is this: there is no one-size-fits-all perfect school. What’s right for one player might be completely wrong for another. The best recruiting process is one where you take control, do the research, and actively seek out the right fit.

This process isn’t about getting into the “best” soccer school—it’s about finding the school that will give you the best overall experience, both on and off the field. That’s different for every player and every family.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, recruiting is about effort and initiative. If you want to play in college, don’t wait for it to happen—go make it happen. Coaches aren’t out there randomly searching for players; they’re looking for players who actively want to be part of their program.

The players who take ownership of their recruiting process, reach out, communicate, and show consistent interest are the ones who end up at the schools that fit them best. If you’re serious about playing college soccer, don’t wait for an opportunity—create one.