Wondering how to navigate the recruiting process and make the most of your upcoming showcase events? The US Youth Soccer National League is providing some pieces of advice for players and families to follow when looking at schools in which the players can potentially continue their playing careers.
Notre Dame women’s soccer head coach Nate Norman offered some simple steps to follow before, during and after events. Former NCAA Division I men’s soccer coach Marc Frankland, who is currently the League Manager for the Midwest Conference and Great Lakes Conference, also offered some helpful advice.
PRIOR TO THE EVENT
Email the schools you are interested in with your schedule, jersey number, coaches’ contact information and graduation year. Include why you are interested in that specific university and any unique accolades you may have.
- Nate Norman
Reach out to schools you like, ask for more information or a media package, contact admissions/financial aid, connect with the coach, and begin to think about an unofficial campus visit. Before you visit, contact the dean of the academic department that interests you most, contact admissions and send your player resume to the college coach and ask for a meeting.
When contacting the coach, show that you’ve done your research and have a genuine interest in the school. In addition to providing your athletic and academic information, include what you like about the school and areas of study they provide that interest you.
- Marc Frankland
AT THE EVENT
During the event, do not do anything except play your best. College coaches cannot have face to face contact with most kids during the event and, even if we legally can, we are very busy watching games.
- Nate Norman
Always focus on yourself and your team, focus on what you do well and how your actions can benefit your teammates. Don't worry about any external influences. During the game, it is all about you and the team. Don't try to do things on the ball that you wouldn't try in any other game. Coaches want to see what you do well... not the skills you need to work on.
- Marc Frankland
AFTER THE EVENT
Players can simply reach out to their club coaches and ask if there is any feedback they can receive about their play.
- Nate Norman
When it comes to identifying where you fit athletically, be realistic about your abilities. To understand why one player is selected over another, simply look at the school’s team roster. When a college coach evaluates you, he or she will look at your technical, tactical, physical and psychological abilities to determine if you would be a good fit for their program. Define your strengths and how you can contribute to the program, and why you would be a good fit if offered a roster spot.
- Marc Frankland
For more information on recruiting, visit Next College Student Athlete (The Official Recruiting Services Provider of US Youth Soccer).
