The college soccer recruiting process is one of the most competitive and challenging journeys a player can take. With thousands of talented athletes vying for a limited number of roster spots, standing out requires more than just skill on the field—it demands strategy, persistence, and confidence. If you’re serious about playing college soccer, here are the best practices to maximize your chances of getting recruited.

1. Create a Quality Highlight Tape

Your highlight video is your first impression on a college coach. Most coaches don’t have time to watch an entire game, so your reel needs to grab their attention immediately. Here’s how to make a highlight video that stands out:

    •    Keep it Short and Sweet – 3-5 minutes is the ideal length. Anything longer, and coaches might lose interest.

    •    Start with Your Best Plays – Put your most impressive moments first. Coaches might only watch the first 30 seconds before deciding whether to continue.

    •    Use High-Quality Footage – Shaky, blurry, or distant videos make it hard to evaluate your skills. Invest in a quality camera or ensure someone is filming your games professionally.

    •    Clearly Identify Yourself – Use an arrow, circle, or freeze-frame at the beginning of each clip so coaches can quickly spot you.

    •    Showcase Versatility – Depending on your position, include a variety of clips (passing, defending, scoring, tactical awareness, speed, etc.).

A highlight video can determine whether a coach responds to your email or moves on to another player. If you don’t put in the effort to make a quality reel, don’t expect great results.

2. List a Top 10 or Top 20 List of Colleges

Too many players make the mistake of only reaching out to 1-2 “dream schools” and then wonder why they aren’t getting offers. The key is to create a realistic target list of 10-20 schools based on:

    •    Division Level – NCAA D1, D2, D3, NAIA, or JUCO. Be honest about what level you can compete at.

    •    Playing Style – Some schools emphasize possession, while others focus on direct play. Pick programs that fit your strengths.

    •    Location & Campus Life – Would you be happy living there for four years?

    •    Roster Needs – Research what positions they’re recruiting for in your class.

    •    Academics & Scholarships – Make sure the school offers the education and financial aid you need.

Once you have your list, organize it into three categories:

    •    Reach Schools – Your dream programs, even if they’re a long shot.

    •    Target Schools – Programs where you have a solid chance of making the roster.

    •    Safety Schools – Programs you’re confident you could play for if all else fails.

Having multiple options increases your chances of finding the right fit.

3. Frequent and Prompt Communication with Coaches

College coaches receive hundreds of emails from recruits. If you don’t follow up, someone else will. Here’s how to stay on their radar:

    •    Send Personalized Emails – Avoid generic messages. Mention specific things about their program and why you’d be a good fit.

    •    Follow Up Every 2-3 Weeks – If a coach doesn’t respond, send a polite follow-up email with updated highlights, stats, or upcoming games they can watch.

    •    Respond Quickly – If a coach reaches out, reply within 24 hours. Slow responses signal a lack of interest.

    •    Be Proactive – Don’t wait for coaches to find you. Reach out first and keep the conversation going.

If you want to play college soccer, treat recruiting like a job application. The more effort you put in, the better your chances of success.

4. Almost Brag About Yourself in Every Introduction

If you’re too humble in your initial emails or conversations, you might get overlooked. Coaches need to know why you deserve a roster spot. Here’s how to market yourself effectively:

    •    Use Confident Language – Instead of saying, “I think I could be a good fit,” say, “I know I can contribute to your team with my [specific skill].”

    •    Highlight Your Accomplishments – Mention your awards, stats, leadership roles, and biggest achievements. If you’ve played at a high level (academy, national team camps, etc.), let them know.

    •    Showcase Your Work Ethic – Coaches love players who are willing to put in the work. Talk about how you train, your dedication to improving, and your commitment to success.

This isn’t the time to downplay your abilities. If you don’t hype yourself up, no one else will.

5. Understand That This Process Takes Time and Nothing Is Personal

Recruiting is a marathon, not a sprint. Here’s what to keep in mind:

    •    Rejection is Normal – Not every coach will respond, and not every school will want you. That’s okay. Move on and focus on the ones who do.

    •    Patience is Key – Some players get offers early, while others get recruited late in their senior year. Keep working and stay patient.

    •    Coaches Have Their Own Timelines – Just because a coach hasn’t responded doesn’t mean they’re not interested. Some wait until ID camps or after their current season to make decisions.

    •    It’s a Numbers Game – The more schools you contact, the better your chances. If you only reach out to a few, you’re limiting your opportunities.

The players who succeed in the recruiting process are the ones who stay persistent, keep improving, and don’t let setbacks discourage them.

Final Thoughts

Getting recruited to play college soccer isn’t just about being a great player—it’s about being proactive, confident, and strategic. A quality highlight video, a well-researched college list, consistent communication with coaches, and the ability to sell yourself are all crucial to standing out.

Most importantly, remember that recruiting takes time, and rejection is just part of the process. The key is to stay focused, keep working, and trust that the right opportunity will come.