Welcome to our essential weekly blog series on college recruitment! Whether you're just beginning your journey or are already deep into the process, this series is designed with you in mind. We'll delve into crucial topics like crafting an impressive highlight video, developing a strategic college list, and mastering the art of securing scholarships. Regardless of where you stand, our series is filled with essential tips and guidance to propel you towards success. Join us every week as we equip you with the insights and tools necessary to confidently navigate the recruitment landscape. 

In Today’s Edition

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• Transfer portal frenzy halts 2027 recruiting

⚽ 7 Key Lessons I’ve Learned After 1 Year on the "Other Side"

After 20 years as a college coach, I thought I had the recruiting process all figured out. But stepping into this new role—helping players and families navigate their recruiting journeys—has been humbling and eye-opening.

Being on the parents’ side has given me a whole new perspective on just how emotional, challenging, and unpredictable this process can be. One year in, here are the biggest lessons I’ve learned that I hope will help you as we navigate this journey together.

1. Communication with Coaches Can Be Frustrating

As a coach, I didn’t fully grasp how hard it can be to get a response. From the parents’ and players’ perspective, it often feels like you’re shouting into the void—emails go unanswered, calls aren’t returned, and the waiting can feel endless.

Here’s the truth: coaches are juggling a lot—recruiting, managing their current team, and handling administrative duties. But that doesn’t mean you should stop trying.

Parents often ask me, “Should we follow up with the coach?” My answer is always yes. Don’t worry about “bothering” them. Consistent communication is how you stand out. You can’t over-communicate, but you can definitely under-communicate.

2. The Recruiting Process Is a Rollercoaster

The highs and lows of recruiting are real. One day, a coach reaches out, and you’re on cloud nine. The next, you’re ghosted or rejected. It’s tough, but rejection is part of the process—it doesn’t define your player’s worth or potential.

In fact, getting to a “no” can be a good thing. It closes a door and allows you to focus on other opportunities. The worst thing is being stuck in limbo. Strive for clarity—a “yes” or “no”—and keep moving forward. Celebrate the wins, learn from the setbacks, and always keep the bigger picture in mind.

3. Stress Peaks as Graduation Nears

As graduation approaches, the pressure intensifies. Parents feel the clock ticking and often look for a “magic formula” to make everything fall into place. Unfortunately, there isn’t one.

This stress can strain relationships—between parents and players, and even between families and me as their guide. The key is to stay grounded, communicate openly, and trust the work you’ve put in. Focus on what you can control, and don’t let the pressure derail the journey.

4. Fit Is Everything

I can help get your player’s information in front of college coaches, but that’s just the first step. Your player needs to be a fit for the program in every way—athletically, academically, and personally.

Coaches are looking for players who align with their team’s culture, goals, and style of play. Sometimes, parents believe their child is a top-level player, but if the offers aren’t coming, it might be time to rethink the strategy.

Listen to feedback from coaches and adjust your approach. Target schools where your player can truly thrive, both on and off the field.

5. The Reality of ID Clinics

Here’s a hard truth: being the best player at an ID clinic doesn’t always matter. Picture this: 60 players show up to an ID camp. As a coach, I can’t watch everyone. I already have a list of players I’ve identified before the camp even starts—players who fit my program, communicated well, and match what I’m looking for.

If you’re not on that list, you might as well be invisible. That’s why communication before the camp is so critical. Make sure the coach knows who you are before you step on the field.

6. A Call to Action Makes a Difference

When I receive an email, I’ll watch the video. Check it out and then I’ll move on to the next thing. But if the email ends with a question—“Can we set up a call?” or “Do you have an ID clinic coming up?”—it sticks with me.

That question creates a nagging voice in my head, reminding me to respond. It might just be me, but I’ve found that a call to action works. Not all coaches are the same, but you’d be surprised how effective it can be to ask a simple question.

7. It’s a Team Effort

The recruiting process requires collaboration between players, parents, and me. Everyone has a role to play. Players need to take ownership of their journey, parents need to provide support without overstepping, and I’m here to guide and facilitate.

When we work together, the process becomes smoother and more effective. The recruiting journey is challenging and exhausting, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. My goal is to help you navigate it with clarity, confidence, and as little stress as possible.

Final Thoughts

The recruiting process is full of ups and downs, but it’s worth it. Remember, rejection is just redirection—it’s not the end of the road. Keep pushing, stay focused, and trust the process.

Good luck!
Steve

18 Year D1 College Coach at Quinnipiac University

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⚽ 2027 Northeast D1 commitments: We've tracked 139 commitments across 48 schools!

2027 Northeast D1 Commitments!

With the massive activity in the transfer portal, recruiting announcements for the Class of 2027 have come to a grinding halt. Stay tuned as we continue to monitor the landscape!

6 schools on this list are at or near capacity for the 2027 class (Based on the amount of juniors they have to replace) Penn State, Syracuse, Cornell, Colgate, Dartmouth and Providence.

We’ve added a new section for Transfers In, where we’ll track announcements as they come in.

2027s: Do your homework before attending ID clinics!

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Your Go-To Websites/Social Media Leaders

• The Steve Coxon Soccer Network - Click Here

• Join our FREE Soccer Scholarship Community and connect with like-minded players and parents navigating the same path “The Recruiting Hub” - Click Here

• Soccer Spotlight Video, run by ex-D1 player Jack Burridge, can turn your full-game footage or specific timestamps into polished highlight videos (Mention The Steve Coxon Network to receive 10% off your next order)- Click Here

• 2024 Men's NCAA Division 1 Soccer Tournament Bracket - Click Here

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• RPI - Check out the Women's College Soccer RPI by clicking this link.

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• NCAA Eligibility Center - Click Here 

• United Soccer Coaches - Awards and Rankings 

• Twitter/X - @Imyouthsoccer

• Twitter/X - @ImCollegesoccer

• Exclusive Insights from College Coaches on the Recruiting Process - https://discovercollegesoccer.com/schools/

• The Informed Athlete - Helping student-athletes excel in sports and academics while navigating eligibility rules - Click Here

About: Steve Coxon College Soccer Network

Steve has 20 years of college-level experience, 17+ years in D1 as the Head Recruiter. He has facilitated more than $30 million in college scholarships.

Location - Connecticut, USA