So You Want To Play College Soccer? - Stop Chasing Names—Find the College Soccer Program That Fits!

Dreaming of Playing College Soccer in the Northeast? Take our quick, two-minute questionnaire designed to simplify your search

February 23, 2025

In Today’s Edition

Welcome to our essential new 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. 

  • Stop Chasing Names—Find the College Soccer Program That Fits!

  • Dreaming of Playing College Soccer in the Northeast? Take our quick, two-minute questionnaire designed to simplify your search.

  • Just Released! Secure Your Spot at the Steve Coxon Soccer Network ID Clinics Powered by Adidas

The world of college soccer recruiting can be exciting and overwhelming for players and their families. With dreams of competing at the collegiate level, it’s easy to focus on top-tier programs while overlooking the most critical part of the process—finding the right fit.

During my years as a Division I soccer head recruiter, my inbox was constantly flooded with emails from student-athletes and their families. They were enthusiastic, often including carefully crafted résumés and highlight videos. But all too often, their skill levels and soccer résumés didn’t match the demands of our program. It was tough to see families travel long distances, spending time and money to attend clinics, only to discover—before even stepping on the field—that our mid-major program wasn’t the right fit.

This pattern inspired me to create a resource for players and families, helping them understand the realities of college soccer and guiding them toward programs where they could truly thrive. Aligning talent and goals is critical, not just to avoid wasted effort, but to save families from unnecessary disappointment and stress.

The Reality of Collegiate Soccer

For high school athletes dreaming of playing in college, the first step is to understand the competitive landscape. NCAA Division I programs get a lot of attention, but they’re incredibly selective. Only a tiny percentage of high school soccer players will make it to this level. Without clear and realistic goals, players risk missing out on opportunities in programs where they’re more likely to succeed.

Talent Isn’t the Only Factor

Recruiting is at the heart of any college soccer program’s success. Coaches evaluate countless players every year, asking one critical question: “Can this player help our team compete at a higher level?” If the answer is no, even highly talented players may not make the cut.

For players and families, this means that understanding your true level of ability is non-negotiable. Chasing programs where you don’t match the team’s style or expectations can waste valuable resources—both time and money—and lead to frustration. Instead, the focus should be on finding programs where you’re competitive and can contribute.

How to Find the Right Fit

The key to a successful recruiting process is identifying the level of play that matches your skills, physical ability, and potential for growth. Here’s how you can approach it realistically and effectively:

Analyze the Path of Others

Take a closer look at where your teammates and fellow club players have committed. For instance, if a teammates with similar skills signs with NCAA Division II programs, that’s a strong clue about where you might fit.

You can also dig into the history of your club team. Which colleges have regularly recruited players from your club? If a particular program or division frequently scouts players from your club, those schools should be on your radar. College coaches often maintain relationships with certain clubs or regions, increasing your chances of being noticed.

Utilizing this information can save time and keep you from targeting schools far outside your realistic range.

Be Strategic with Resources

Instead of attending every clinic or showcase, focus your efforts on events where your talent will stand out. Participating in showcases tied to your strengths and skill level will maximize your chances of being seen by the right coaches. This approach reduces unnecessary expenses while helping you target schools that fit you best.

Steps for a Smarter Recruiting Process

Navigating recruiting is about preparation and informed decision-making. Here are practical steps you can take to make the most of the process:

1. Have Honest Conversations with Coaches

Ask your high school or club coach for a clear evaluation of your skills. Be open to their feedback—don’t just ask for what you want to hear. Coaches who know your abilities well can provide an unbiased perspective on your level and where you’re most likely to succeed.

2. Monitor Response Rates

Track which schools respond to your outreach. If Division I schools aren’t showing interest but you’re receiving positive feedback from Division II or III programs, it’s a sign your efforts need to focus on those levels. Pay attention to patterns; this can guide you toward realistic and attainable opportunities.

3. Watch College Soccer Games

One of the best ways to understand the level of play in different programs is to see it firsthand. Go to live games when you can or watch online streams. Pay close attention to the pace, physicality, and skills of freshman players—they’re the athletes you’d be competing against. Compare what you see to your current ability, and adjust your target programs accordingly.

4. Study College Rosters

Take time to review the rosters of schools you’re interested in. Find out where the current players were recruited from, what leagues they played in, and what accolades they earned. For example, if a roster is filled with players from elite leagues like ECNL or GA, and your experience is in a lower-tier league, you’ll need to assess whether you realistically align with that program’s standards.

This type of detailed research can prevent you from wasting time pursuing schools where you’re unlikely to compete.

Matching Ambition with Reality

Dreaming big is commendable, but setting realistic goals is essential to navigating the recruiting process successfully. When families focus on programs where the athlete’s skills, aspirations, and academic goals align, they reduce stress and improve their chances of finding the right fit.

Remember, the goal of recruiting isn’t just to play college soccer—it’s to find a school where you can grow, feel challenged, and be successful both on and off the field. With honest self-assessment, strategic planning, and research, the process becomes less overwhelming and far more rewarding.

Focus on realistic opportunities and commit wholeheartedly. Success isn’t measured by a conference title; it’s about finding a team and a community where you can truly thrive. By being realistic about your abilities and targeting the right programs, you’ll approach this process with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

Dreaming of Playing College Soccer in the Northeast?

Navigating the college soccer recruiting process can feel overwhelming, with so many schools to consider and limited resources. That’s why we’ve created a quick, two-minute questionnaire designed to simplify your search. It only takes a couple of minutes to complete, and within 24 to 48 hours, you’ll receive a personalized response highlighting Northeast programs that align perfectly with your soccer résumé and goals.

By completing the questionnaire, you’ll save time and money, avoid chasing the wrong schools, and focus on where you truly belong. Take control of your recruiting process today and start targeting schools that are the right fit for you. Don’t wait—Complete the 2-Minute Questionnaire Now and take a big step toward achieving your college soccer dreams!

Secure Your Spot at the Steve Coxon Soccer Network ID Clinics Powered by Adidas!

We’re thrilled to announce a unique chance to shine in front of college coaches.This spring, we’re hosting exclusive ID Clinics for both boys and girls at the brand-new Day Hill Dome in Windsor, CT. These clinics are the perfect chance to showcase your talent and elevate your game while connecting with top college coaches.

A Premier Showcase for Aspiring Players - Your opportunity to Shine and Get Noticed!

Whether you’re a male or female athlete, these clinics are designed to help you take a confident step toward your college soccer aspirations. We’ve invited college coaches from across New England and the Northeast, representing DI, DII, and DIII programs, making this an incredible opportunity to get noticed by the best in the game.

With only 50 player spots available per clinic, space is very limited. Don’t wait—secure your spot today and make the most of this exciting event!

Don’t Miss Out – Register Now

This is your chance to shine and take your skills to the next level. Slots are filling up fast, so don’t delay! Register today to lock in your place and ensure your spot at this high-profile event.

🔗 Boys (Only 31 spots remain)- Reserve your spot now!

🔗 Girls (Only 26 spots remain) - Reserve your spot now!

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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