So You Want To Play College Soccer? - RPI 101: The Secret Weapon for College Soccer Recruits!

95 female athletes have recently committed to 40 North East colleges for the class of 2027

September 28, 2025

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

  • RPI 101: The Secret Weapon for College Soccer Recruits!

  • Stop Wasting Time and Money on the Wrong Schools! What’s your CSN Score?

RPI 101: The Secret Weapon for College Soccer Recruits!

Creating a list of schools that includes both top 10 programs and teams ranked in the 300s? That’s a major red flag. It signals that you may not fully understand the recruiting process or where you realistically fit in the college soccer landscape.

When building your college list, it’s crucial to demonstrate that you’ve done your homework. One of the most effective tools to guide your search is the Rating Percentage Index (RPI). While it may sound technical, RPI is essentially a ranking system that evaluates teams based on their performance and the strength of their opponents. Understanding RPI can help you avoid missteps and make smarter decisions. Here’s why it matters:

1. Demonstrating Credibility to Coaches

College coaches want to see that you’ve put thought into your list of potential schools. If your list includes both elite programs in the top 10 and teams ranked in the 300s, it raises questions about your understanding of the level of play required at each program. Coaches may wonder if you’re serious about their school or if you’re simply casting a wide, unfocused net.

By using RPI to identify programs that align with your skill level, you show coaches that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in their program. This can make a strong first impression and set you apart from other recruits.

2. Evaluating Teams and Finding the Right Fit

RPI provides a clear picture of how a team stacks up against others. It’s not just about rankings—it’s about understanding the level of competition and where you fit within that spectrum.

For example, if you’re a standout player on your ECNL club team, you might aim for programs ranked in the top 100. On the other hand, if you’re still developing and playing DPL, targeting schools ranked in the 200s or 300s might be more realistic.

Additionally, consider the accomplishments of players at schools with high RPI rankings. Do your stats and achievements measure up? Are your teammates committing to similar programs? This self-assessment can help you build a list of schools that match your abilities and aspirations.

3. Saving Time, Energy, and Money

The college search process can be overwhelming, but RPI is a powerful tool to streamline your efforts. By focusing on programs that align with your goals and skill level, you can avoid wasting time and resources on schools that aren’t a good fit.

For instance, traveling to ID camps or showcases for schools that are far outside your range as they are too competitive—can be a costly mistake. A well-researched list ensures you’re targeting programs where you have a realistic chance of success, both athletically and academically.

4. Avoiding Red Flags

When you create a list of schools it’s a reflection of your understanding of the recruiting process. A list that includes both top 10 teams and programs ranked in the 300s suggests a lack of focus and preparation. Coaches want to see that you’ve taken the time to evaluate their program and understand where you fit.

Instead, use RPI to create a balanced list of schools that includes a mix of reach, target, and safety programs—all within a realistic range for your abilities. This approach not only shows maturity and thoughtfulness but also increases your chances of finding the right fit.

Explore RPI Rankings

Another way to evaluate teams is by utilizing the #CSN number, similar to the RPI, it helps identify schools that recruit players with a soccer résumé similar to yours. This tool can provide additional clarity and ensure you’re targeting programs that align with your profile.

By leveraging RPI rankings and the #CSN number, you can make informed decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and set yourself up for success in your college soccer journey. Remember, a thoughtful and well-researched approach will always stand out to college coaches.

Get Expert Guidance for Your Soccer Journey

Have more questions about the recruitment process? Don’t tackle them alone. Schedule a free 15-minute Zoom call with Steve who can provide you with personalized support and a clear direction forward.

Join us as we empower you to take charge of your recruitment and turn your dreams into reality

🎯 Stop Wasting Time and Money on the Wrong Schools! What’s your CSN Score?

Your CSN # is the key to understanding which colleges are the perfect fit for your athletic and academic profile. It’s a precise measure that helps identify schools that recruit players with your unique resume and skills.

🚨 95 female athletes have already committed to 40 North East colleges for the class of 2027, with CSN Numbers ranging from 30 to 90. (Schools such as Syracuse, Cornell and Penn State have probably already filled their 2027 rosters!)

We've developed an algorithm that accurately predicts the types of schools that will recruit you based on your personal CSN number and each college’s CSN profile. 

Want to join them? Knowing your CSN # puts you on the path to achieving your college athletics goals and finding a school that values you.

📊 Discover where YOU stand and uncover the best opportunities waiting for you.

The CSN # (College Soccer Network Number) is your personalized recruiting tool to focus your efforts on the right colleges.

Why Get Your CSN?

✅ Target Schools with Laser Focus
Identify colleges that recruit players with similar profiles.

✅ Save Time and Money
Avoid camps and schools that aren’t a fit.

✅ Data-Driven Recruiting
Understand where you stand and what to aim for.

Take Control of Your Journey

Sign up for your CSN # today and focus on schools that match your soccer resume.

👉 Click here to activate your CSN # and start targeting the right schools today! After you purchase, you'll get an email from us requesting a bit of information—once received, we'll send you your personalized number within 24 hours.

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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