So You Want To Play College Soccer? - 5 Key Lessons I’ve Learned 1 Year on the "Other Side" of the Business!

Helping Athletes Achieve Their Dreams for as little $89 a Month!

July 20, 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. 

  • 5 Key Lessons I’ve Learned 1 Year on the "Other Side" of the Business!

  • Helping Athletes Achieve Their Dreams for as little $89 a Month!

5 Key Lessons I’ve Learned 1 Year on the "Other Side" of the Business!

After spending 20 years as a college coach, I thought I had a solid grasp of the recruiting process. But stepping into this role—helping players and parents navigate their recruiting journeys—has been humbling and eye-opening. Being on the parents’ side has revealed just how challenging, emotional, and unpredictable this process can be.

One year in, I’ve learned some tough lessons that I believe can help parents better understand what to expect as we move forward together.

1. Communication with Coaches Can Be Frustrating

As a coach, I didn’t fully appreciate how difficult 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 be agonizing. The reality is, coaches are juggling a lot—recruiting, their current team, and administrative duties.

Parents often ask me, “Should I reach back out to the coach?” My answer is always a resounding yes. Many worry about “bothering” coaches, but the truth is, you need to become that player—the one who stands out through consistent communication. You can never over-communicate, but you can certainly under-communicate.

2. It’s a Rollercoaster Ride

The recruiting process is an emotional whirlwind. One day, a coach reaches out, and you’re thrilled. 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 helpful. It closes that door and allows you to focus on other opportunities. Nothing is worse than uncertainty. Strive for a clear “yes” or “no,” and keep moving forward. Celebrate the wins, learn from the setbacks, and stay focused on the bigger picture.

3. Stress Peaks as Graduation Nears

As the high school graduation date approaches, the pressure ramps up. Parents feel the weight of the clock ticking and often search for a “magic formula” to make everything fall into place. Unfortunately, there isn’t one.

This stress can strain relationships between parents, players, and even me as their guide. It’s important 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. Trust the Process!

4. Fit Is Everything

I can get your player’s information into the hands 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.

Parents often 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 accordingly. Target schools where your player can truly thrive, both on and off the field.

5. 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.
Good Luck!

Helping Athletes Achieve Their Dreams for as little $89 a Month!

Navigating the recruiting process can be overwhelming, but we’re here to simplify it. We provide a laser-focused strategy to save you time and money by targeting the right schools and ID clinics. From personalized highlight videos to maximizing social media visibility, we ensure your athlete gets noticed. Our comprehensive support includes direct coach communication, event recommendations, and guidance every step of the way. Let’s work together to make your athlete’s college soccer dreams a reality!

1. Highlight Video Creation

A standout highlight video is the first essential step to catch a coach’s attention. We’ll help you:

  • Select and organize the best clips to showcase your skills.

  • Offer expert suggestions to make your video stand out from the crowd.

2. College List Creation

Save time and focus your efforts with a personalized college list:

  • We’ll help you identify schools that align with your soccer abilities and academic goals.

  • This targeted approach ensures you’re focusing on the right programs, avoiding wasted time and money on schools that aren’t a match for your player’s profile.

3. Social Media Visibility

Boost your online presence and get noticed by coaches:

  • We’ll retweet your posts on X (formerly Twitter) to increase visibility.

  • Monitor and respond to inquiries from college coaches to keep the conversation going.

  • Provide two game images per month for you to post, highlighting your schedule and performance.

4. Coach Communication

Connecting with your top-choice programs is key. We’ll help you:

  • Craft personalized introduction emails to coaches.

  • Conduct one outreach per month to share your resume and updated video highlights.

  • Add you to our Top Prospect Newsletter, sent to college coaches every two weeks. (Over 2000+ college coaches in our database)

5. Clinics and Events

Maximize your exposure by attending the right events:

  • We’ll research and recommend clinics that align with your goals.

  • Notify coaches of your participation to keep you on their radar.

6. Unlimited Support

From start to finish, we’re here for you:

  • Answer your questions via email anytime.

  • Guide you through evaluating offers to ensure the best academic and athletic fit.

7. Recruiting Tips Newsletter

Stay informed with our Recruiting Tips Newsletter, sent every other day to keep you updated on the latest in college recruiting.

Structured Payment Plan

Our Freshman (2029) and Sophomore (2028) plan is just $89 per month, with the option for convenient direct debit. For information on our Junior plan, please email us at [email protected]

If you’re ready to get started, click this link, and we’ll kick off the process right away. Let’s work together to achieve your college soccer dreams!

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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