Navigating the NCAA recruiting process can feel overwhelming with so much information available. Our NCAA Recruiting Checklist simplifies everything into clear, step-by-step instructions to help you stay organized and focused on meeting each requirement for a smoother path to collegiate athletics.
This guide is an easy-to-follow checklist for soccer players looking to compete at the NCAA Division I, II, or III levels, as well as in NAIA, junior colleges, and other collegiate soccer programs. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from evaluating your skills and academics to creating a standout recruiting profile and effectively communicating with coaches.
1. Research and Self-Assessment
Player Evaluation: Assess your skills, strengths, and areas for improvement. Consider what level of competition suits your abilities (Division I, II, or III).
Academic Readiness: Maintain a strong GPA and prepare for standardized tests (SAT/ACT). Meet NCAA academic eligibility requirements.
2. Create a Recruiting Profile
Highlight Reel: Compile a professional-quality video showcasing your skills and gameplay. Include highlights of technical abilities, tactical awareness, and athleticism.
Player Resume: Include your academic information, athletic achievements, statistics, and contact details. Add coaches as references.
3. Communicate with Coaches
Initiate Contact: Send personalized emails to coaches expressing interest. Include your recruiting profile and video.
Attend Showcases/Camps: Participate in events where coaches from your target schools will be present.
Follow Up: Maintain consistent communication, updating coaches on your progress and achievements.
4. Visits and Offers
Unofficial Visits: Visit campuses on your own to get a feel for the school and program.
Official Visits: If invited, the school pays for your visit, offering a chance to meet the team and coaching staff.
Scholarship Offers: If interested, coaches may extend an offer. Negotiate and evaluate whether it meets your goals.
5. Commit to a Program
Verbally commit when ready (not legally binding).
Sign a National Letter of Intent (NLI) during designated signing periods to finalize your commitment.
6. Prepare for College
Stay in shape and maintain academic performance.
Communicate with the coaching staff about preseason expectations.
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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