How to Get Noticed by College Soccer Coaches: Tips and Strategies
Standing out to college soccer coaches is one of the most critical steps in achieving your dream of playing collegiate soccer. With over 460,000 student-athletes competing across NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA programs, the competition is fierce. By employing the right strategies, creating an impactful soccer recruiting profile, and leveraging opportunities such as showcases and camps, you can significantly improve your visibility in the soccer recruiting process.
Tips for Getting Noticed by College Soccer Coaches
Build a Winning Soccer Recruiting Profile
Your recruiting profile is your virtual introduction to college soccer coaches. It should highlight your athletic performance, academic achievements, and personality. Coaches use these profiles to assess a recruit’s fit for their team.Participate in Soccer Camps and Showcases
Soccer camps and showcases are among the best ways to demonstrate your skills to college soccer coaches. The NCAA allows camps year-round, making them prime opportunities to play in front of multiple coaches in one setting.Leverage Social Media for Soccer Recruiting
Platforms like Instagram and Twitter are excellent tools to connect with coaches. Use these platforms to share highlight reels, game updates, and training videos while tagging the schools and programs you’re targeting.Network and Build Relationships
Establishing relationships with college soccer coaches and influencers in the soccer community can significantly increase your exposure. Networking with current players, high school coaches, and club directors also creates pathways to connections with college programs.Focus on Academics
Strong academic performance makes you a more attractive recruit. For NCAA programs, meeting eligibility requirements—such as a minimum GPA of 2.3 in core courses and completion of 16 core high school courses—is essential. Coaches value recruits who can balance academics and athletics.
How to Create a Winning Soccer Recruiting Profile
Your soccer recruiting profile is one of the most important tools in attracting the attention of college soccer coaches. Here’s how to make it stand out:
Highlight Your Strengths and Achievements
Include your soccer statistics, such as goals scored, assists, and saves, as well as any awards or recognitions. Academic achievements like GPA, SAT/ACT scores, and coursework should also be prominent.Showcase High-Quality Media
A highlight reel is a must-have for soccer recruiting. Your video should showcase technical skills, game intelligence, and athleticism. Coaches want to see you in action during actual games, not just drills.Keep Your Profile Active and Updated
Update your profile regularly with recent game stats, new videos, and academic progress. Promptly respond to any messages or inquiries from coaches—it shows professionalism and commitment.
How Camps and Showcases Boost Soccer Recruiting
Attending soccer camps and showcases helps you:
Perform in front of multiple college soccer coaches simultaneously.
Learn about different coaching styles and team cultures.
Gain valuable feedback to improve your game.
NCAA Division I and II schools host camps in alignment with the NCAA recruiting calendar, often during evaluation periods. Similarly, NAIA and NJCAA programs offer camps that allow you to showcase your skills in a competitive environment. Upper 90 College can assist you to get out to camps where coaches are ACTUALLY recruiting you based on our relationships with them via the Connect Experience service we provide.
Leverage Social Media to Stand Out
Social media is a game-changer in modern soccer recruiting. Follow these tips to make it work for you:
Post consistently and authentically. Include game highlights, workout clips, and training sessions.
Tag college programs and college soccer coaches to draw attention.
Keep your profiles clean and professional—your online presence reflects your personal brand.
Key Statistics in College Soccer Recruiting
Over 460,000 NCAA student-athletes compete annually, with only 7% of high school athletes advancing to college sports.
NCAA Division I programs can allocate up to 9.9 men’s scholarships and 14 women’s scholarships per team, while Division II offers up to 9 scholarships for both.
NAIA programs provide up to 12 scholarships per team, and NJCAA programs allow 18 scholarships per team for tuition, books, and housing.
Approximately 50% of college soccer players participate in showcases or ID camps before being recruited.
Compelling Call to Action
Getting noticed by college soccer coaches requires effort, strategy, and perseverance. Whether you're creating an impactful soccer recruiting profile, attending showcases, or reaching out via social media, every step you take brings you closer to your goal.
Are you ready to take your soccer career to the next level? Build your recruiting profile, attend camps, and connect with the best college programs today. Start your journey with expert guidance from Upper 90 College—your pathway to collegiate soccer success!
