If you want to continue playing soccer after high school, college soccer offers a variety of pathways, each with unique demands and opportunities tailored to fit your goals both on and off the field. Whether you want to play professionally or simply want to continue competing at a high level, there is a college soccer experience waiting for you.
Vermont soccer has been on the rise, and the success of local teams such as Vermont Green FC and the University of Vermont men's and women's soccer teams have shown players of all abilities that there are more opportunities for Vermont soccer players to create a career or simply continue playing than they may have realized.
Why Play College Soccer?
College soccer can be a transformative experience. It begins before the school year starts with preseason training, which helps you acclimate to your new environment. This early arrival allows you to bond with teammates, navigate campus life, and gain valuable insights that might otherwise take years to discover. Beyond soccer, it is an opportunity to grow as an athlete, a student, and a person. Most students who play sports in college connect with people they might otherwise never meet, building relationships that often last long after graduation.
Being part of the team and working toward an individual goal to improve and become an impact player pushes you to be competitive, while the team works toward a common goal and supports every member both on and off the field. Your teammates will become the people you spend the majority of your time with during the season, and often.
While each team has its own unique experiences, you can look forward to traveling, playing against former high school teammates or opponents, and having the support of your coaching staff to help you succeed on and off the field.
While playing soccer can add positives to your life in college, balancing academics, athletics, and personal interests can be challenging. The time commitment varies depending on the level of competition, so understanding your priorities is essential.
Understanding the Differences Between NCAA Divisions
NCAA Division 1 (D1) Soccer
D1 programs represent the highest level of collegiate soccer in the United States. These teams are typically part of large universities with substantial athletic budgets and facilities. Athletes who compete at the D1 level often aspire to play professionally.
Commitment: D1 soccer feels like a full-time job, with year-round practices, games, strength training, and team activities. Coaches have significant access to players except during NCAA-mandated "dead periods."
Competition: The season culminates in the NCAA National Championship, also known as the "College Cup.”
List of D1 Colleges
NCAA Division 2 (D2) Soccer
D2 programs offer a competitive environment with a more balanced approach to academics and athletics. These schools are often mid-sized and place a strong emphasis on academic achievement alongside athletic success.
Commitment: While still demanding, D2 soccer provides more flexibility compared to D1, with structured off-seasons and respect for academic schedules.
Competition: D2 teams compete in regional and national tournaments, with the NCAA D2 Championship as the ultimate goal.
List of D2 Colleges
NCAA Division 3 (D3) Soccer
D3 programs prioritize the student-athlete experience, emphasizing academics and extracurricular activities. These schools don’t offer athletic scholarships but still provide a high level of competition.
Commitment: D3 soccer has fewer time demands, allowing players to focus on academics and personal interests. Coaches’ access to players during the off-season is limited by NCAA regulations.
Competition: Teams compete for conference championships and a national title in the NCAA D3 Championship.
List of D3 Colleges
Beyond the NCAA: Other Pathways
NAIA and Junior Colleges
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and junior colleges (JUCOs) offer additional opportunities for players. NAIA programs often blend athletic competition with a more flexible academic approach, while junior colleges can be a stepping stone to higher levels of play.
Club Soccer
For players seeking high-level competition without the extensive time commitment of varsity soccer, club teams are an excellent option. Typically student-run, these teams compete in regional leagues and national tournaments.
Commitment: Practices and games are regular but less demanding, allowing for a better balance with academics and other interests.
Cost: Club teams often rely on membership fees and fundraising, as financial support from schools can vary.
Intramural Soccer
Intramural soccer is perfect for those who love the game but prefer a relaxed, recreational setting. Open to all students regardless of skill level, intramural leagues focus on fun and social interaction.
Structure: Teams are often formed by friends, residence halls, or student organizations, with opportunities to sign up as a "free agent."
Commitment: Games are typically played weekly, with shorter seasons and flexible rules to encourage participation.
Choosing What’s Right for You
While some players select their college based on the soccer program, others prioritize academics, career goals, or personal interests. It’s not uncommon to find elite players in D2 or D3 programs because they chose a school that best fits their overall aspirations.
No matter the path, playing college soccer provides an opportunity to continue growing both as a player and as a person. Whether your goal is to compete at the highest level, maintain a balance between academics and athletics, or to simply continue playing, there’s a place for you in college soccer.
If you are interested in discussing your pathway to continuing your soccer career, contact admin@shocksportsvt.com to set up a FREE consultation!
Written by Kyle, Owner & Director @ Shock Sports
This guide is intended to make the college process easier to understand. Please let us know if any of this information has changed since posting so we can keep it up to date.
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