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

• Are you Feeling the Weight of Supporting Your Son or Daughter Through the College Recruiting Process?

• Finding the college recruiting process stressful? Many parents feel the same. Let’s Discuss.

⚽ Are you Feeling the Weight of Supporting Your Son or Daughter Through the College Recruiting Process?

It’s an emotional roller coaster—not just for the athletes, but for parents too. Your role is crucial in helping your child stay grounded, motivated, and optimistic during this important chapter. You are their steadfast supporter, their sounding board, and their anchor in a sea of uncertainty. Here’s how you can make a powerful difference.

Help Reframe Rejection

Rejection is an inevitable part of the recruiting journey, but it doesn't have to be a crushing blow. Remind them that rejection isn’t the end of the road; it’s redirection. It’s part of a numbers game where each “no” brings them one step closer to the right “yes.” A school that isn't the right fit is simply making way for one that is.

Encourage persistence and help them see that setbacks are merely stepping stones to success. Share stories of famous athletes who faced rejection before finding their place. This perspective helps normalize the experience and transforms a negative event into a learning opportunity. Remind them that every interaction, positive or negative, provides valuable information about what they want in a program and a school.

Support Them Through the Silence

Few things are as disheartening as the silence that follows a hopeful email or a promising conversation. When coaches don’t respond, it can feel like a personal rejection. Encourage patience and perseverance. Coaches often manage packed schedules, recruiting trips, and the needs of their current team. A lack of response is rarely a reflection of your child's talent.

Help your athlete develop a consistent follow-up plan. This isn't about being pushy; it’s about showing genuine interest and providing valuable updates. A simple email with new game footage, academic achievements, or a note wishing the team luck can keep them on a coach's radar. Your support in maintaining this persistence is critical, as it teaches a life lesson in professional diligence.

Combat Self-Doubt

It is completely natural for your child to question their abilities when faced with the pressures of recruiting. Moments of self-doubt will happen. Your role is to be their most steadfast believer. Remind them that their value as a person and an athlete isn’t tied to a quick response from a coach or a specific scholarship offer.

Help them focus on their journey of growth, not the timeline of others. Encourage them to create a "highlight reel" of their own—not just of game-winning plays, but of moments where they overcame a challenge, demonstrated leadership, or worked hard to improve a skill. Reflecting on their progress can be a powerful antidote to the self-doubt that creeps in during quiet periods.

Focus on the Controllables

So much of the recruiting process feels out of your athlete's hands. Guide them to channel their energy into the areas they can directly impact. This builds a sense of empowerment and control, even when the broader situation feels uncertain. The key is to focus on daily actions, not just the final outcome.

These controllables include their skills, fitness, academics, and communication. Are they putting in extra practice? Are they staying on top of their conditioning? Are they excelling in the classroom? Are they proactively and professionally communicating with coaches? By concentrating on these tangible elements, they build a foundation of excellence that will serve them well, regardless of where they land.

Celebrate Their Unique Path

It’s easy to get caught up in comparing your child's journey to that of their teammates or rivals. But there is no universal formula for success in recruiting. Every athlete’s path is different, and that is something to be celebrated. Be their number one cheerleader, celebrating who they are as an individual and supporting their unique goals.

Help them define what success looks like for them. Is it playing for a top-tier program, finding a school with excellent academics in their desired field, or simply having the opportunity to continue playing the sport they love? Their goals are what matter. By reinforcing their individual worth and vision, you give them the confidence to own their journey.

Above all, stay positive and be their anchor. This process is a marathon, not a sprint, filled with highs and lows. Your steady reassurance and unwavering encouragement can have an immeasurable impact on their experience and their resilience. With your guidance, they will not only navigate this challenge but also be ready to seize the perfect opportunity that is waiting for them.

⚽ Finding the college recruiting process stressful? Many parents feel the same. Let’s Discuss. Q&A with Steve Tomorrow!

Join me tomorrow at 5:30 PM to get your questions answered and gain clarity on the college recruiting process.
This free live Q&A session for parents is your chance to feel empowered and prepared.
Don't miss out—secure your spot for our Zoom call tomorrow at 5:30 PM!

RSVP Here

⚽ Dreaming of Playing College Soccer? We’ve got you covered. Join the “Recruiting Hub” our FREE Online Community!

Join The Recruiting Hub—a FREE community with insider tips on roster openings, ID clinics, and college commitments. Simplify your recruiting journey today!

👉 Click here to join the community for free now!

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

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

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

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

• 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