So You Want To Play College Soccer? - The Broken Leg Test: Choosing a College for More Than Just Sports!

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March 30, 2025

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Welcome to our essential 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. 

  • The Broken Leg Test: Choosing a College for More Than Just Sports

  • Share this newsletter and earn a free Digital Online Course worth ($199) when you hit 10 referrals!

  • Get Expert Guidance for Your Soccer Journey with a Free 15-Minute Zoom Call

The Broken Leg Test: Choosing a College for More Than Just Sports!

For aspiring college soccer players, deciding where to play is one of the most exciting and consequential decisions you will make. While dreams of athletic success and the thrill of competition are vital motivations, the reality is that your college choice should encompass much more than just sports. This is where the "Broken Leg Test" comes in.

The concept is simple yet profound. Imagine an unfortunate hypothetical scenario where an injury, like a broken leg, prevents you from playing soccer. Would you still be happy at the college? Would it still offer the academics, community, and personal growth opportunities you need to thrive? Thinking beyond the sport can help you choose a school that supports all aspects of your life.

Here’s how to apply the Broken Leg Test to your college decision process, along with practical tips to guide you along the way.

Step 1: Look Beyond the Pitch

While athletic programs are naturally a top priority, it’s essential to evaluate other critical aspects of the schools on your list. Ask yourself these key questions to assess each college's fit for life beyond sports:

Academics

  • Does the school offer your preferred major or area of interest?

  • Are there strong internship or research opportunities in your field?

  • How accessible and supportive are professors and academic advisors?

A robust academic program ensures you have a solid foundation to build your post-soccer career. Look for schools with high graduation rates and resources that align with your goals.

Location & Lifestyle

  • Do you prefer urban, suburban, or rural settings?

  • What’s the local culture like? Do the community’s values and activities align with your preferences?

  • How accessible is the campus? Will you need to rely on public transit, or is everything within a walkable distance?

These factors heavily influence your quality of life and long-term satisfaction on campus.

Social Life and Community

  • Is the campus community tight-knit or more independent?

  • Do you see yourself blending into the on-campus culture or participating in off-campus activities?

  • Is there a “college town” vibe, or is the school integrated into a bustling city environment?

Engaging socially is vital to your happiness. Think about what kind of setting fits your personality best.

Distance from Home

  • How far are you willing to be from family and friends?

  • Can you afford regular trips home, or would you be okay staying put during breaks?

Balancing independence and access to your support system is important, especially during the first year.

Step 2: Weigh the Pros and Cons

Once you’ve evaluated each school based on the above factors, create a clear list of priorities. Maybe academics are your top concern, or perhaps being close to home is a must-have. Think about short- and long-term goals and how each choice aligns with them.

Rank the factors and weigh the benefits. For example, if one school offers an excellent soccer program but doesn’t provide your preferred major, you may want to rethink where it stands on your list.

Step 3: Develop a Ranking System

A ranking system helps you compare colleges objectively. Assign a score to categories like academics, location, social life, and financial affordability. Use a scale of 1 to 10 to measure how well each school meets your needs. This way, you can see a clear picture of which colleges rise to the top overall.

Step 4: The Broken Leg Test

Once you've identified your top options, run the Broken Leg Test. Take each college and imagine your soccer career is put on hold. Would you still feel fulfilled academically and socially? Would the school still provide you with the resources and environment to develop as an individual?

The Broken Leg Test ensures that your college choice offers value beyond sports. It’s a reminder to focus on your future outside soccer and take steps to build a well-rounded college experience.

Practical Tips for a Well-Informed Decision

  1. Research Thoroughly
    Dive into online resources, visit school websites, and join college forums. Read reviews from current and past students to understand campus life.

  2. Visit the Campuses
    Schedule visits to your shortlisted schools. Walk around. Attend a class. Picture yourself living and studying there for four years.

  3. Talk to Students and Alumni
    Their firsthand accounts can give you honest insights into the academic programs, athletic atmosphere, and overall culture.

  4. Consult Experts
    Speak to your coaches, guidance counselors, and even college admissions representatives. They can provide valuable advice tailored to your situation.

  5. Factor in Post-Graduation Goals
    Think ahead. What does life after college look like? Does the college set you up for success, whether on or off the pitch?

Final Thoughts

Choosing where to play college soccer isn’t just about the sport. By applying the Broken Leg Test, you’re taking a holistic approach to your decision-making process. You’re ensuring that the school you choose is one where you’ll not only excel on the field but also grow academically, socially, and personally—even if soccer were taken out of the equation.

Making this choice is a huge step, but with careful thought and thorough research, you’re setting yourself up for a college experience that will prepare you for success in every area of life.

Share this newsletter and earn a free Digital Online course worth ($199) when you hit 10 referrals!

Get Expert Guidance for Your Soccer Journey with a Free 15-Minute Zoom Call

Feeling unsure about the next steps in your soccer recruiting process? Whether you need advice, clarity, or just a check-in to confirm you’re on the right path, we’re here to help!

At Steve Coxon Soccer Network, you can schedule a FREE 15-minute Zoom consultation to take charge of your soccer career. Use this time to discuss your goals, evaluate your progress, and create a plan to boost your recruiting success.

Why Book a Free Session?

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  • Expert Guidance: Learn from professionals who know the recruiting process.

  • Strategic Roadmap: Build a step-by-step plan aligning with your goals.

How to Get Started

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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