So You Want To Play College Soccer? - Crush Your Next Call with College Coaches: What to Ask and Expect

Navigating College Soccer Recruiting with Realistic Goals

July 14, 2025

In Today’s Daily Edition

Welcome to our essential daily 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 day as we equip you with the insights and tools necessary to confidently navigate the recruitment landscape. 

  • Crush Your Next Call with College Coaches: What to Ask and Expect

  • Step #2: Navigating College Soccer Recruiting with Realistic Goals

  • Sign up for "So You Want to Play College Soccer Daily"

Crush Your Next Call with College Coaches: What to Ask and Expect

Navigating conversations with college coaches can feel overwhelming, but preparation is key to making a great impression. Whether you're gearing up for your first call or looking to refine your approach, having a clear idea of what to expect—and what to ask—can make all the difference. Below, we’ve outlined some common questions coaches may ask you, as well as thoughtful questions you can ask them. Taking the time to review these will help you feel confident and ready for these important discussions.

Questions Coaches May Ask You

Coaches are looking to understand who you are as a student, athlete, and individual. Here are some common topics they may cover:

Academic and College Interests

  • What are you looking for in a college, both academically and athletically?

  • Why are you interested in our program and school specifically?

  • What academic subjects or majors are you most passionate about?

Athletic Goals and Experience

  • Can you tell me about your current high school or club team experience?

  • What are your goals as a student-athlete during your college career?

  • How do you balance academics and athletics right now?

  • What do you think are your biggest strengths as a player?

  • What areas of your game are you currently working on improving?

  • Have you attended or do you plan to attend any ID camps or showcases?

Personal Soccer Passion

  • Who is your favorite player and why?

  • What team do you support, and how long have you been a fan?

  • Do you follow professional soccer actively?

  • Which professional player do you feel your playing style most resembles?

Tip: Take some time to think about your answers to these questions. Coaches want to get to know you as both a student and an athlete, so answering with clarity and confidence will leave a strong impression.

Questions You Can Ask the Coaches

When a coach asks if you have any follow-up questions, it’s a great opportunity to learn more about their program and show your genuine interest. Here are some examples of thoughtful questions you can ask:

Team and Coaching Philosophy

  • How would you describe the team culture, and what role do players have in shaping it?

  • What is your coaching philosophy, both on and off the field?

  • What are your goals for the program over the next few years?

Player Development and Opportunities

  • Can you describe a typical weekly schedule during the season, including training, games, and recovery?

  • What is your approach to player development and helping athletes reach their potential?

  • What role do freshmen typically have on the team? Are there opportunities for immediate contributions?

  • What opportunities are available for players to stay connected with soccer after college, either professionally or within the sport?

Academics and Support

  • How does the team manage the balance between athletics and academics?

  • What academic resources are accessible to student-athletes at your school?

Tip: Select a few questions that feel most relevant to you and your priorities. This will show the coach that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in their program.

Additional Suggestions for Success

  • Take Your Time: It’s perfectly fine to pause and think before answering a question. Thoughtful responses are always better than rushed ones.

  • Show Gratitude: At the end of the conversation, thank the coach for their time and express your appreciation for the opportunity to learn more about their program.

By preparing for these conversations, you’ll not only feel more confident but also leave a lasting impression on the coaches you speak with. Remember, these discussions are a two-way street—they’re as much about you learning if the program is the right fit as they are about the coach evaluating you.

Good luck, and enjoy the process!

Step #2: Navigating College Soccer Recruiting with Realistic Goals

The college soccer recruiting process is an exciting yet often overwhelming journey for student-athletes and their families. With dreams of playing at the collegiate level, it’s easy to focus solely on top-tier programs, but the most critical factor is often overlooked—finding the right fit. Aligning your skills, goals, and aspirations with the right program is the key to a successful and fulfilling college soccer experience.

This guide will help you set realistic expectations, identify programs suited to your abilities, and approach the recruiting process strategically. By focusing on the right steps, you’ll save time, reduce stress, and improve your chances of finding a program where you can thrive.

Understanding the Collegiate Soccer Landscape

For high school athletes, the first step is understanding the college soccer landscape. While NCAA Division I programs often dominate the spotlight, they recruit only a small percentage of high school players. Many talented athletes find incredible opportunities at Division II, Division III, NAIA, or junior college programs.

The competitive nature of collegiate recruiting highlights one simple truth: success isn’t about playing for the most prestigious team. It’s about finding a program that aligns with your abilities, playing style, and goals.

Why Talent Isn’t the Only Factor

College coaches evaluate more than just talent—they assess whether a player can help their team succeed. Even highly skilled players may not make the cut if their style or position doesn’t align with a program’s needs.

For athletes, a realistic self-assessment is crucial. Pursuing programs that aren’t the right fit can lead to wasted energy, resources, and unnecessary disappointment. Instead, focus on schools that value what you bring to the table. Finding the right fit ensures you’ll have a better chance to contribute, grow, and succeed both on and off the field.

Steps for Smarter Recruiting

To streamline your recruiting efforts and make informed decisions, follow these actionable steps:

1. Analyze the Path of Other Players

  • Look at where your teammates and peers with similar abilities are committing. If players with comparable skills are joining Division II or III programs, those types of schools might be a good fit for you, too.

  • Review your club’s recruiting history. If certain colleges frequently recruit from your club, it’s worth reaching out. Coaches often maintain strong relationships with trusted clubs, which could increase your chances of being noticed.

2. Be Strategic with Time and Resources

  • Instead of attending every camp or showcase, focus on events where you’ll stand out. Target showcases and camps specifically designed for athletes at your skill level. This approach minimizes unnecessary expenses and connects you with the right coaches.

3. Have Honest Conversations with Coaches

  • Ask your high school or club coach for an objective assessment of your abilities. Their insights can help you narrow down programs that match your skill level and playing style. They may also provide connections or recommendations to programs that are a good fit.

4. Monitor College Responses

  • Pay attention to how colleges respond to your outreach. If you’re not hearing back from Division I programs but receiving interest from Division II or III schools, it’s a sign to adjust your focus. Track responses carefully to align your efforts with realistic opportunities.

5. Watch Games and Study Rosters

  • Watch Games: Observe the level of play at different colleges by attending games or watching online. Focus on freshmen players—they’ll be your competition. Compare their skills and style to your own to better understand where you might fit.

  • Study Rosters: Review the rosters of schools you’re interested in. Look at where players come from, their leagues, and their accomplishments. For example, if a program recruits primarily from elite leagues like ECNL or GA and you play in a lower-tier league, that school might not be a viable option.

6. Stay Organized

  • Keep track of schools’ contact information, recruiting timelines, and communication. Use a spreadsheet or app to log details, such as which coaches you’ve spoken with, feedback received, and upcoming deadlines.

Balancing Dreams with Realities

Dreaming big is great, but setting realistic recruiting goals is essential for finding success and happiness in college soccer. Aim to balance your aspirations with practical considerations. By targeting programs that match your skill level, academic goals, and long-term ambitions, you’ll reduce stress and open doors to opportunities that truly fit you.

Key Takeaways for a Successful Recruiting Process

  • Target Realistic Programs: Identify schools that align with your abilities and ambitions.

  • Focus on Fit, Not Prestige: A great program is one where you can grow and contribute.

  • Be Strategic: Spend your time and resources on opportunities that maximize your chances of success.

  • Monitor and Adjust: Use feedback from coaches to refine your target list regularly.

Ultimately, the goal isn’t just to play collegiate soccer—it’s to find a program where you’ll thrive both as an athlete and a student. When you approach recruiting with honesty, strategy, and focus, you’ll increase the likelihood of landing in a program where you feel challenged, valued, and empowered to achieve your goals.

Closing Thoughts

The college recruiting process is about much more than talent—it’s about finding the right environment to grow as an athlete and student. Start early, be realistic, and stay open to opportunities across all divisions. By approaching the process with clarity and determination, you’ll set yourself up for a fulfilling college experience that goes far beyond the field.

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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