The path to playing college soccer starts with standing out in a competitive recruiting landscape. While the process may seem overwhelming, attending college soccer camps can provide a game-changing opportunity to showcase your skills directly to coaches.
NSR goes beyond just getting you to the camp—we ensure you get noticed. Before the camp begins, we notify college coaches about your abilities, sharing your video highlights and NSR Recruiting Profile. We also send the Camp Director a Letter of Recommendation, making sure you’re evaluated as a potential recruit, not just another camper.
Take the first step toward your college soccer dream. Get evaluated today and let NSR help you stand out at your next camp!
GET EVALUATEDCollege coaches frequently scout talent at club tournaments and ID camps. These events offer a concentrated opportunity to evaluate a large number of players in a short period. While gaining experience against top-level competition is valuable, the primary goal for many recruits is to maximize visibility and attract the attention of college coaches. When selecting tournaments and camps, consider the following:
Scout Tip: Participating in the right events with coaches who know who you are can significantly enhance your recruiting. If you are showing up to these events without communicating with the coach or knowing what they are looking for in upcoming classes then you are going in blind. If you are unsure about what camps and showcases are right for you, get in touch with an NSR scout today.
Earning a spot on a college soccer team and securing a scholarship to help finance your dream is an incredible achievement. But with so many talented players out there, how do you stand out and get noticed by coaches?
While every journey is unique, some key milestones are crucial for all soccer players aiming for college: Understanding the 4 phases of soccer recruiting will help you navigate the process more effectively and position yourself for success.
GET EVALUATEDFirst, you must be identified by college coaches and recognized as a potential recruit.
Your athletic skill set has to be evaluated by coaches, either by video or in person.
College coaches will compare your athletic skills, academic performance, and more to other athletes.
College coaches will determine their top prospects and offer them a scholarship or roster spot.
soccer scholarships come in various forms, ranging from full rides to partial financial aid packages. Here's how to boost your scholarship chances:
Understand the scholarship landscape across NCAA Divisions 1, 2, and 3, and NAIA institutions. Division 1 typically offers the most athletic scholarships, but competition is fierce. Consider exploring options across different divisions to find the best academic and athletic fit with strong scholarship opportunities.
Maintain a high GPA, ACT/SAT test scores, and consider taking challenging courses to demonstrate your academic potential. Strong academic performance makes you a more attractive scholarship candidate.
Showcase your talent not just on the field but also in the classroom. Highlight academic achievements and leadership qualities alongside your athletic skills to stand out.
GET EVALUATEDUnderstanding the NCAA soccer recruiting calendar and communication rules is crucial for navigating the college search process effectively. Here's a breakdown to help you stay ahead of the curve:
The NCAA dictates specific timeframes for when and how college coaches from different divisions can contact and interact with potential recruits. Knowing these regulations helps you anticipate coach communication and manage your recruiting timeline strategically.
Coaches can actively reach out via email, text, and calls. Expect them to introduce themselves, express interest, and answer questions. Be ready to showcase your achievements and show interest in their programs.
These periods allow coaches to watch you compete in person or visit your school/home to assess your skills. Understanding the specific rules regarding evaluation locations (school-based vs. non-scholastic events) is crucial.
During these periods, coaches can't have face-to-face contact with recruits off-campus. However, electronic communication is still allowed, providing an opportunity to continue conversations with coaches you've already connected with.
These periods prohibit all communication between coaches and recruits. Utilize these times to focus on academics, refine your skills, and research colleges without the pressure of constant communication.
National Scouting Report delves deep into the intricacies of soccer recruiting, going beyond generic "college recruiting" information. Here's what you can expect:
Gain valuable insights directly from college scouts who've been in your shoes. Their "been-there, done-that" perspective provides a unique edge in your recruiting journey.
We understand soccer recruiting has its own challenges. NSR offers specific strategies geared towards showcasing your soccer skills and maximizing your exposure to college coaches.
We'll break down the process into clear milestones, helping you stay organized and achieve your recruiting goals.
College soccer players have opportunities across NCAA Divisions I, II, and III, as well as NAIA and JUCO programs, each offering unique experiences at camps. Division I camps are highly competitive, drawing elite athletes and showcasing advanced training methods to match the top-tier level of play. Division II camps emphasize a strong balance between athletics and academics, offering a more personalized experience with coaches focused on skill development. Division III camps prioritize academics while maintaining a competitive athletic environment, often featuring smaller group sizes for more individual feedback. NAIA and JUCO camps can provide affordable options for showcasing talent and often serve as stepping stones to four-year programs. Understanding the differences helps players align camp choices with their goals and maximize their recruiting potential.
Focus: Most competitive level of college soccer.
Scholarships: Offers the most athletic scholarships, with some schools providing full rides.
Academics: Highly selective academic institutions often with rigorous course loads.
Top D1 Colleges: Ohio State University, Duke University, University of San Diego, and University of Denver
Focus: Strong balance between athletics and academics.
Scholarships: Offers athletic scholarships, but typically less than D1. Financial aid packages may combine athletic and academic merit aid.
Academics: Diverse range of academic institutions.
Top D2 Colleges: Franklin Pierce University, Colorado State University (Pueblo), Florida Tech, and Lewis University
Focus: Strong emphasis on academics with a competitive athletic environment.
Scholarships: No athletic scholarships offered. Financial aid typically comes in the form of academic merit aid and need-based grants.
Academics: Primarily consists of private liberal arts colleges and universities.
Top D3 Colleges: St. Olaf College, Amherst College, Washington & Lee University, and Washington College
Focus: Offers a balance between athletics and academics, similar to D2.
Scholarships: Provides athletic scholarships, though typically less than D1 or D2.
Academics: Consists of smaller private and public colleges.
Top NAIA Colleges: Dalton State, Oklahoma Wesleyan, Mobile (AL), Missouri Valley, and William Penn
Focus: Two-year colleges offering athletic programs.
Purpose: Can be a stepping stone to transfer to a four-year institution.
Scholarships: Offer athletic scholarships in some cases.
Top JUCO Colleges: Iowa Western Community College, Indian Hills Community College, Eastern Florida State College, and Tyler Junior College
Unlike some sports, soccer recruiting heavily relies on video to assess potential recruits. This makes your skills video a crucial tool in catching the eye of college coaches. Here's what you need to know to create a video that showcases your talents and gets you noticed:
Knowing what the college coach is looking for in your video is crucial. Some coaches want to see strictly skills footage while some are more interested in game footage. Make sure you are talking with an NSR scout to determine what the best route is.
GET SCOUTED
The road to collegiate soccer is exciting, but it requires preparation. With NSR and your dedication, you'll be well-equipped to showcase your talent, connect with the right program, and turn your dream into a reality. Are you ready to step up to the plate?
GET EVALUATEDGet in-depth stats and numbers on your favorite schools to find the perfect fit!
Get in-depth stats and numbers on your favorite schools to find the perfect fit!
