How to Get Recruited for College Soccer: A Comprehensive Guide
Getting recruited for college soccer can be a challenging but exciting experience for high school players. With the right guidance, you can increase your chances of being discovered by college coaches and pursuing your dreams in higher education sports.
The Importance of College Soccer Recruiting Rules and Guidelines
Understanding the NCAA's guidelines and regulations is crucial to avoiding any penalties or complications during the recruitment process. Familiarize yourself with these rules.
The NCAA sets specific dates for official campus visits and contact with coaches, ensuring a fair process for all players. Understand the timeline.
A National Letter of Intent is signed starting November of your senior year, formalizing your commitment to a college program. Your Guide to College Men’s Soccer Recruiting. NCSA Women’s Soccer Recruiting Guide.
Staying informed and compliant is key to avoiding recruitment violations. Stay up-to-date with the latest information, and build relationships by reaching out to current players or alumni from colleges that interest you (source).
The Proper Way to Build Your Scouting Video
A well-made scouting video is one of the most effective ways to grab a coach’s attention. College coaches don’t have time to attend every game, so your video needs to highlight your best skills in a concise and professional manner.
Key Tips for an Effective Soccer Recruiting Video:
Keep it Short & Engaging (3-5 Minutes Max)
College coaches review hundreds of videos—keep yours short and impactful.
Show your best highlights within the first 30 seconds to grab attention.
Showcase Game Footage, Not Just Drills
Coaches want to see how you perform in real game situations.
Include clips that display your technical skills, tactical awareness, and decision-making.
Highlight Position-Specific Skills
For Forwards & Wingers: Show goals, assists, dribbling, and off-the-ball movement.
For Midfielders: Display passing accuracy, vision, and defensive coverage.
For Defenders: Showcase 1v1 defending, interceptions, and aerial duels.
For Goalkeepers: Include saves, distribution, and command of the defense.
Use Multiple Camera Angles When Possible
High-quality footage from different angles improves visibility.
Use sideline, behind-the-goal, and elevated perspectives for a clear view of your play.
Add Basic Player Info & Contact Details
Include a title card at the beginning with your name, graduation year, position, club/team, email, and phone number.
Add a short text overlay during key moments to explain what’s happening (e.g., “High-Press Interception Leading to Assist”).
Showcase Soccer IQ & Work Ethic
Include clips that highlight your leadership, communication, and work rate on and off the ball.
Avoid unnecessary slow-motion edits—coaches prefer raw, unedited game speed.
Host & Share Your Video Properly
Upload to YouTube or Hudl for easy access.
Keep it unlisted if you don’t want the public to see it, but shareable for coaches.
Include the link in emails, recruiting profiles, and college applications.
By following these steps, you’ll create a compelling scouting video that stands out and improves your chances of catching the eye of college recruiters.
Networking and Performance
Network with top professional soccer training programs like Solo Fútbol and get your child to train hard to enhance their abilities, giving them a competitive edge in front of college coaches.
The key to getting recruited is showing that you are a smart player and you understand the game. Train like a PRO with Solo Fútbol Training Programs.
Raise your game by reaching new heights in training. Take advantage of expert coaches at Solo Fútbol Academy.
Conclusion
By focusing on learning the rules and networking with top training programs and colleges, you can achieve your dreams in college soccer.