'So You Want To Play College Soccer?' Social Media Secrets To Get On a Coaches Radar!

Summary of Matt’s Interview with Coach Keith Simons from Vassar College Women's Program

January 26, 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. 

  • Social Media Secrets To Get On a Coaches Radar!

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

  • Summary of Matt’s Interview with Coach Keith Simons from Vassar College Women's Program

  • Roadmap To Soccer Scholarship Success - Free 1 Hr Zoom Call On Thursday, January 30th at 5pm EST

Social Media Secrets To Get On a Coaches Radar

Build Your Social Media Presence to Get Recruited

For student-athletes dreaming of playing at the college level, social media is more than just a platform to share updates or memes—it’s a powerful recruiting tool. When used wisely, it can showcase your talents, personality, and dedication to the coaches who might hold the key to your future. That said, it’s important to approach your social media presence with strategy and care. Here’s how you can use your online platforms to stand out in the competitive world of college athletics.

Know the Rules: NCAA and Beyond

First things first—before you start building your profile, you need to know the rules. The NCAA has specific guidelines when it comes to recruiting and social media interactions, and colleges often enforce their own policies too. Make sure you’re aware of these so you don’t accidentally hurt your chances.

Think of it this way: your social media should reflect the values of the programs you’re interested in. By keeping your profiles clean, professional, and focused on your goals, you’ll show schools that you’re serious—not just about athletics, but about representing their programs with integrity.

Why Coaches Are Watching

Here’s the reality—college coaches are spending more time than ever scouting talent online. Social media gives them a window into your life, beyond what they might see on the field or in highlight reels. Coaches use platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and even Facebook to spot potential recruits, evaluate their character, and learn more about what kind of teammate and student-athlete you might be.

A survey conducted by Cornerstone Reputation found that a significant number of coaches actively research recruits online. Some even use anonymous accounts to look at unfiltered activity. This means that not only do they see your posts, but they might also look at what you like, comment on, or share. Knowing this, you’ll want to make sure every action you take online reflects the kind of player and person coaches want on their team.

5 Steps to Stand Out Online

With the stakes so high, building an impressive social media presence doesn’t happen by accident. Here are five strategies to help you take control of your online image:

1. Increase Your Visibility

Be intentional about sharing your achievements, game highlights, and training progress. Platforms like Twitter and Instagram are great for showcasing your hard work and keeping coaches updated on your performance. The more you post relevant content, the more likely coaches are to take notice.

2. Leverage Your Network

Tagging your club coaches, trainers, or teammates in your posts can help amplify your visibility. When they share or comment on your content, your reach expands to their audience. Think of it as turning your network into a support system that boosts your profile.

3. Interact with Schools

It’s not just about posting—it’s about engagement. Follow schools you’re interested in and interact with their content. Use their hashtags, retweet their announcements, and comment when appropriate. A word of caution, though—interacting with coaches directly on social media can be a delicate balance. Focus on meaningful engagement rather than spamming their accounts.

4. Share Positive and Relevant Content

Every time you post, ask yourself, “Would a coach be impressed by this?” Share updates that reflect qualities like teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship. Whether it’s a photo of your team celebrating a win or a video of a tough workout, make sure it aligns with the kind of person you want to project. Steer clear of anything controversial or negative—it can ruin the image you’ve worked hard to build.

5. Tailor Your Strategy

Different programs rely on different platforms. Some coaches might favor Twitter for its quick updates, while others gravitate toward Instagram’s visual appeal. Spend some time researching where your target schools are most active, and focus your energy there.

A Double-Edged Sword

Social media is a game-changer for college recruiting—but only if you use it wisely. While it can boost your visibility and showcase your best qualities, it can just as easily backfire if you’re not careful. Always keep in mind that your online activity is a direct reflection of your character and commitment.

With careful planning and effort, you can turn your social media presence into a key asset in your recruiting journey. Stay mindful of the NCAA’s rules, focus on what coaches value, and use your platforms to highlight the athlete—and person—you are. The opportunities are out there; now it’s time to connect, engage, and make them yours.

Just Released! 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.

Summary of Matt’s Interview with Coach Keith Simons from Vassar College Women's Program

  • Recruitment Timeline: Vassar starts tracking players from their freshman year, focusing on academic fit due to the school's high academic standards. The junior year is crucial for tangible recruiting steps like visits and connecting recruits with current players.

  • Diverse Recruitment: The program values geographic diversity and attends various tournaments and showcases across the country to find players, including ECNL, GA events, and others like Surf Cup and Jefferson Cup.

  • Importance of Camps: Camps are seen as a two-way interview, allowing coaches and players to interact directly. Vassar runs its own camps and attends others to evaluate players in different settings.

  • Attributes Sought: Coach Simons looks for players who impact the game in versatile ways, with strong technical skills and the ability to adapt to different playing styles and formations.

  • Official Visits: At the D3 level, official visits are more about campus interaction rather than covering travel expenses. They focus on integrating recruits with current players and faculty.

  • Balancing Academics and Athletics: Vassar's admissions process ensures recruits are academically prepared. The program supports individual academic needs without blanket policies, emphasizing a balance between ambition and success.

  • Staff and Support: The coaching staff includes a full-time assistant focused on goalkeeping and wellness, and a part-time assistant. The program benefits from strong administrative support for logistics and resources.

  • Transparency and Communication: Coach Simons emphasizes transparency in the recruiting process, encouraging open communication and ownership from recruits to avoid surprises and ensure a good fit.or both the coaching staff and the recruits to make informed decisions.


    Discovercollegesoccer.com

Roadmap To Soccer Scholarship Success - Free 1 Hr Zoom Call On Thursday, January 30th at 5pm EST

Starting the college recruitment process can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re just beginning to explore the opportunities available for your young athlete. 

That’s why we’re excited to invite you to a free 1 hour Zoom call on Thursday, January 30th at 5 PM EST to help you take those all-important first steps.

During the session, you’ll gain valuable insights, including:

  • Maximizing Recruitment Success: Proven strategies to help your child stand out in college soccer recruitment.

  • Exclusive Resources: Customizable email templates and a complete database of every college coach’s contact information nationwide.

  • Step-by-Step Checklist: A clear, actionable plan to simplify the recruiting process.

  • Expert Guidance: Insider advice from professionals with a Q&A session to address your specific questions.

Spots are limited (just 15 spots left) so don’t miss this opportunity. Secure your spot on this call and discover how this program can pave the way to your child’s soccer scholarship success.

Sign up now to reserve your place: Roadmap to Soccer Scholarship Success.

We look forward to sharing this exciting opportunity with you!

Your Go-To Websites/Social Media Leaders

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🎓College coaches will also be helping and evaluating players that attend this camp who have aspirations to play college soccer in the USA.

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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