So You Want To Play College Soccer? - The Recruiting Showcase Grind: A Coach’s Perspective!

Which 25 D1 Schools Are Still Recruiting for 2026?

April 13, 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. 

  • The Recruiting Showcase Grind: A Coach’s Perspective!

  • Which D1 Schools Are Still Recruiting for 2026?

The Recruiting Showcase Grind: A Coach’s Perspective

Back in my days as the head recruiter for DI Quinnipiac University (way back last May!), showcases were a chance to shape the future of our program—but they could also be overwhelming, chaotic, and downright exhausting. From trying to track down fields to evaluating dozens of players in a tight timeframe, these weekends test our organization, patience, and stamina.

For athletes and parents, knowing what goes into our process can help you stand out. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look and some tips for maximizing your impact.

20 Minutes of Opportunity

At recruiting events, time is our most valuable resource. We have dozens of players to watch and sometimes only 20 to 30 minutes per game to observe a prospect. That means it’s vital for players to make those minutes count.

I’m not just looking for stunning goals or flashy plays (though those do grab my attention!). What really impresses me are the intangibles. Are you actively engaged in the game? Do you encourage your teammates? How do you react when things don’t go your way? These are the moments that showcase not just your ability, but who you are as a player and teammate.

Tip for Players and Parents: Every second on the field is a showcase. Stay involved, be vocal, and work hard. Coaches are watching more than just your technical skills—we’re assessing your overall presence on the pitch.

The Maze of the Fields

Navigating showcase complexes is no small feat. With 30+ fields across sprawling venues, finding the right spot is half the battle. Add to that inconsistent signage, unreliable apps, and last-minute venue changes, and it’s a logistical headache. I can’t count the number of times I’ve tracked down Field 12, only to get a text saying, “We’ve been moved to Field 3!”

Tip for Players and Parents: Share your full schedule, including exact field locations, ahead of time. If there’s a last-minute change, notify coaches immediately. The less time we spend wandering, the more time we have to watch you play. Trust me, it’s appreciated.

Jersey Numbers Are Supposed to Help...

Jersey numbers are meant to make scouting straightforward, but all too often, they create confusion. Maybe the roster says you’re #24, but on the field, you’re wearing #42. Or worse, the opposing team’s jerseys are nearly identical to yours, making it a guessing game. By the time I figure out who’s who, valuable minutes are gone.

Tip for Players and Parents: Before the event, verify that the jersey number you gave aligns with what you’ll be wearing. Managers can also help with detailed rosters or profiles, even if everything is available digitally. A little organization goes a long way in keeping us focused on your performance instead of solving mysteries.

Sideline Behavior Speaks Volumes

Parents, we notice how you carry yourselves just as much as we notice your athlete on the field. Positive support can boost player morale, but sideline coaching, arguing with officials, or criticizing others are distractions we never forget.

Recruiting is about more than finding talent; it’s about finding individuals who fit seamlessly into a team’s culture. Players that bring energy and positivity are more likely to succeed—not just on the field, but in locker rooms and classrooms too. Watching how an athlete responds to their family’s behavior reveals a lot about their potential fit.

Tip for Parents: Be supportive without overstepping. Cheer, encourage, and set the tone for a strong, respectful sideline. Your approach reflects on your athlete more than you might realize.

The Reality of “Hidden Gems”

One of the biggest misconceptions about recruiting showcases is that they’re about discovery. While that would be nice, the reality is different. Most top players are already committed by the time they hit these events. Rarely do we stumble upon unscouted future stars.

Coaches don’t show up to wander aimlessly in hopes of finding talent. We arrive with portfolio-like lists of players to evaluate, compiled through hours of research. Showcases validate what we’ve already seen in footage or heard from club coaches. While it’s great to spot a new prospect, the majority of our target players are ones we’re already following.

Tip for Players and Parents: Don’t rely on chance. Reach out to coaches in advance with your profile, schedule, and highlights. Getting on their radar early ensures you’re on the list they’ve already prepared for the event.

Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute

Imagine this scenario: My showcase schedule is locked in with careful color coding, notes galore, and zero flexibility. Then I get an email the morning of that says, “Hey Coach, I’m playing at 8 a.m. on Field 10, hope you can stop by!”

I’d love to see everyone, but there’s no time to adjust. Showcases require meticulous planning to make the most of the time available. Late emails just don’t fit the picture.

Tip for Players and Parents: Email coaches a week or more before the showcase. Include your schedule, field locations, jersey number, and a short introduction. Personalize your message and show effort. Generic emails don’t leave much of an impression, but thoughtful communication does.

The Takeaway

Showcases are a grind, but they’re also key to finding the right players for a program. Coaches are looking for much more than just talent—we’re evaluating who you are as a player, teammate, and contributor both on and off the field.

To stand out, remember these tips:

  • Communicate clearly and send schedules well in advance.

  • Play every minute like it’s your audition. Stay engaged and show effort beyond technical skills.

  • Parents, maintain a positive presence. Your actions create a lasting impression, just like your athlete’s performance.

We’re not just recruiting players—we’re recruiting personalities, determination, and a commitment to the game. Give us a reason to remember you. See you out there!

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.

Schools Still Recruiting for 2026

🟨 Penn
Penn is recruiting players for their program, offering a chance to combine elite academics with competitive soccer - Upcoming ID Clinic April 18th, 2025

🟨 Lafayette
Lafayette is specifically seeking a Forward.

🟨 Quinnipiac
Quinnipiac is on the hunt for players to fill several key positions, including:

  • Right/Left Wing Back

  • Center Back

  • Attacking Center Midfielder

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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