While it may feel like college recruiting is on hold in 2020, it is far from that. The recruiting landscape has changed over the last couple of months, but it hasn’t stopped. College programs have adapted to new methods of recruiting, such as virtual college tours, watching full game videos and live streams, inviting players to attend zoom meetings and other virtual experiences. The modern student-athlete should be comfortable with technology and willing to utilize it to maximize their exposure to potential college soccer programs.
Here are some tips and reminders for navigating the process:
Keep your SportsRecuits Profile Up-to-Date
- It is important to add new video, update grades or add new information when available.
Identify & “Favorite” Schools on Your List
- Be diligent in your search for schools that may be potential fits for you. Searching for schools based on geographic region, academics, and cost can provide options that you may not have been aware of previously.
Be a Strong Communicator
- Players are responsible for recruiting themselves. In the absence of showcase events and in person recruiting it is even more important that players are putting themselves on the radar of college coaches.
- An introductory email to the coaching staff is a great way to start. Be sure to include your graduation year, club information, gpa, high school, and contact information.
- If we have already introduced ourselves to a coach it is important to provide a follow up email, phone or zoom call. Players should update coaches as often as possible regarding new information, such as- updated highlight reel, improved grades, full game footage, visits to campus or camps.
- Ask questions. Asking a question is an effective way to get coaches to respond to your emails. You can ask about their recruiting needs or plans, what events they may attend, when they are holding camps, etc.
Research, Research, Research
- There is an abundance of resources available online to learn about a school, or college soccer program.
Players can do virtual tours of campuses
Most schools provide full games or game recaps on their athletics page or youtube.
Most schools have a strong presence on social media, follow and stay engaged.
Request information from the school; admissions info and camp info can be very helpful.
Do Not Wait & Utilize Your Resources
- Although it may feel like there isn’t much happening, recruiting is happening every day and it is important to stay up to date and active.
- CRYSC College Placement Director Anthony Presnell is available to help support and guide players through the process.
The College Soccer page on the CRYSC website offers a great starting point for parents and players interested in college soccer. For more information, visit our webpage here. For any questions or concerns, please contact CRYSC’s College Placement Director at [email protected].
