So You Want To Play College Soccer? - Grind - The Truth About College Soccer Recruiting!

Which D1 Schools Are Still Recruiting for 2026?

May 11, 2025

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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. 

  • Grind - The Truth About College Soccer Recruiting!

  • Which D1 Schools Are Still Recruiting for 2026?

Grind - The Truth About College Soccer Recruiting!

Unless you’re on the US national team, here's the honest truth about college soccer recruiting—it’s far from glamorous.

Sure, a handful of big-name prospects might have a smooth ride, but for the vast majority of players, success doesn’t come easy. It’s hard work, plain and simple. The players who succeed are those who grind tirelessly to carve out their path. There’s no magic wand, no secret formula, and definitely no overnight success. It’s a daily hustle that demands dedication, resilience, and patience.

Take Control of the Process

Recruitment doesn’t just happen. You need to be proactive and take charge of your future. That starts with one of the most important steps in the process: sending emails.

And no, firing off a couple of generic messages won’t cut it. Be prepared to send dozens, maybe even hundreds, of well-crafted, personalized emails that make an impression. Coaches are swamped with hundreds of messages from players. If you want yours to stand out, it needs to be unique and meaningful.

Even then, you might not hear back right away. Don’t take it personally. Coaches are incredibly busy. Stay persistent and keep reaching out until you get a definitive yes or no.

Your Game Film is Your Secret Weapon

Your game film can make or break your recruitment chances. Often, it’s the first introduction a coach has to you as a player, so it needs to shine.

You’ve only got 30 seconds to grab their attention, so lead with your best plays. Show off the moments that highlight your strengths and make you unforgettable. Keep it short, polished, and professional. A poorly edited or boring highlight reel can shut doors before they’re even opened.

Social Media is a Game Changer

Twitter and Instagram have revolutionized recruiting, giving you direct access to showcase your skills and connect with programs. Use these platforms wisely. Post game clips, share your schedule, and keep your profiles professional.

Show coaches who you are as a player, but don’t cross the line into spamming. Be respectful and strategic. Tagging coaches can work, but know that many larger program accounts are run by media teams, not the coaching staff. Go the extra mile to research and find the right people to contact.

Prepare for Rejection

Here’s a reality you need to accept now—rejection is part of the process. Coaches will ghost you. Some will tell you you’re not the right fit, or that their recruiting class is already full. It’s frustrating, even disheartening, but it’s not the end of the road.

Rejection doesn’t define you. Every “no” is simply one step closer to the right “yes.” It’s a numbers game, and the players who persist will ultimately find a good fit.

The Rollercoaster of Recruitment

Recruiting is an emotional ride. One day you’re thrilled because a coach shows interest, and the next you’re discouraged because they’ve gone silent. This process will test your focus, your discipline, and your ability to keep pushing forward.

The players who succeed aren’t always the most talented. They’re the ones who stayed patient, who kept grinding, and who trusted the process—even when it felt impossible. It’s not easy, but the effort, persistence, and grit pay off in the end. If you stick with it and refuse to give up, your opportunity will come.

Final Thoughts

There’s no shortcut to success in college soccer recruiting. It’s a long, challenging road, but the players who rise to the top are the ones who outwork the competition. Keep showing up, keep grinding, and don’t stop moving forward. You’ll find your place if you stay in the fight.

#Grind

Which 25 D1 Schools Are Still Recruiting for 2026? Find Out Here!

If you’re a 2026 female soccer player aiming for a Division 1 roster, opportunities are still out there! Some programs are actively recruiting, but spots are filling up fast!

Check out this list of schools we believe are still recruiting. Schools highlighted in yellow have been confirmed this information.


May 11th - The Northeast 2026 verbal commitments have slowed to a trickle as most schools have either completed their rosters or are waiting on the transfer portal. Expect a flurry of transfer portal signings over the next few weeks, after which a few schools will continue to finalize their rosters.

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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