Playing Soccer in College: Soccer Recruiting Roadmap (Part 2)
- Soccer Unleashed
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Welcome back, soccer parents! If you’re reading this, chances are your child is dreaming big—and you’re right there beside them, trying to figure out how to help.
In Part 1, we walked through Freshman and Sophomore year—those early stages where it’s all about laying the foundation, building the Soccer Profile, and keeping the dream alive without too much pressure.
But now… it’s go time.
Junior and Senior years are when the college soccer recruiting process kicks into high gear. It’s about supporting your player emotionally, staying organized, and keeping the doors open.
It’s exciting. It’s overwhelming. And it’s completely normal to feel lost sometimes. Remember, your player is also feeling the stress. Reassure them that every player's path is different and you are by their side.
Let’s get into it.
Junior Year (11th Grade): Full Engagement & Contact with College Coaches
Junior year is often the busiest soccer recruiting year.
Grades and College Entry Tests. Continue to focus on grades and raising your GPA. If you have not done so already, take SAT and/or ACT exams. If they struggle too much with one of them, try the other. Then encourage studying and possibly taking a course, if needed.
Focus on Reaching Out to Coaches. Encourage your player to regularly check-in and update coaches from schools from their top 10 schools. Include updated highlight reel, sharing their Soccer Profile, and informing them of their upcoming tournaments, showcases and games. Great way to start a conversation and get a reply is to ask questions. Be sure that the college target list includes not only top schools, but second choices and at least 2-3 safeties.
Communication Do's and Don't
Do personalize each message, do not copy/paste messages to college soccer coaches. Mistakes happen that way and messages do not feel personalized.
Include GPA, graduation year, highlight link, and upcoming schedule of events where you player is playing. Be sure to attach an updated Player Profile (resume).
Parents should not be sending messages to coaches. College coaches want to communicate with the player until things progress.
Campus Visits (Official and Unofficial)
Unofficial Visits: You pay for these, and you can take as many as you want. It's a fantastic way for your child to experience the campus, meet coaches, and see if the school is right for them not only from a soccer perspective, but culturally and academically.
Official Visits: The school pays for these visits. These visits are a deeper dive – your child will typically spend time with the team, meet faculty, and get a real feel for campus life. These usually start August 1 before junior year for DI.
High-Profile Showcases. Continue to prioritize those tournaments where college coaches will be heavily scouting. This is prime time for your player to shine.
Build Relationships. Encourage your child to connect not just with coaches, but with academic advisors, current players, and anyone else who can offer insight into the school and program.
Senior Year (12th Grade): Making the Choice & Sealing the Deal
You're in the home stretch for playing soccer in college! Senior year is all about making those final decisions and formalizing commitments.
Narrow Down Options. Focus on the schools that truly align with your child's academic, athletic, and personal long-term goals.
Stay Consistent. Even if offers are on the table, keep lines of communication open with your all of your final targets. New opportunities can always pop up, and showing continued interest is vital.
Financial Aid & Applications. Don't forget the paperwork! Complete college applications and the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) early. Understand the financial aid packages each school offers.
Signing Periods. Be aware of the National Letter of Intent (NLI) signing dates for Division I and II schools. This is the formal commitment. For Division III and NAIA, it's typically an offer letter.
Have a Backup Plan. What if the dream scholarship doesn't materialize? Explore walk-on opportunities, or consider Division III, NAIA, or Junior College. These can be incredible pathways to collegiate soccer that many overlook.
Lots of information shared in Part 1 and Part 2 of this blog series. More information and tips are provided along with checklists, tracking worksheets, and resources in the College Soccer Workbook.
The Bottom Line: Playing Soccer in College Soccer
There’s no magic formula for getting recruited, no guarantee's, no perfect timeline. We wish there was! But the truth is, every player’s path is different. There will be ups and downs. Some get noticed early. Some don’t figure it out until later. Some tryout as a walk-on. But, everyone has to create their own path. It takes dedication, hard work, and a smart approach from both your player and your family.
So, start planning today, talk to others who have been through the process, use the resources available to you, and most importantly, keep nurturing your child's passion for the game. Wishing you the best!
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Because every player deserves a fair shot—and every parent needs a partner in the process. We're here to serve, guide, and champion every players' soccer journey.
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