Choosing a college can be a time-consuming and difficult process
When that’s combined with a desire to compete at the collegiate level in a sport, it might feel like a race with no clear finish line in sight. If you want to continue playing soccer on a college team, there are a few things you need know and things you should think about. We’ve put together a list of tips to help you debunk a handful of common recruitment fallacies and streamline the process.
Myth: Athletic scholarships should take precedence above all other considerations.
Athletic scholarships rarely cover the entire cost of a student’s college education. The most consistent method to earning college scholarships remains through grades, owing to the fact that an athletic scholarship is unlikely to alleviate the entire financial load of higher education. Regardless of how glamorous an athletic scholarship may sound, getting the most bang for your buck should remain at the forefront of your college search.
Myth: Coaches will come to those who are willing to wait.
The grease goes to the squeaky wheel, and the athlete that hustles for his or her position wins the roster slot. It doesn’t matter how good you are at anything; promoting yourself is essential for developing relationships with coaches and landing a scholarship or a spot on the squad. The fact is that receiving a large number of honors and accolades does not imply inevitable recruitment. College coaches have the final word on whether or not you are a good match for their program, so creating a good first impression can help you stand out and raise your profile. Coaches keep an eye on prospects at showcases and combines with which they have established links, so if you’re serious about playing for a certain team, it’s a smart idea to learn about and participate in these networks.
Please keep in mind that camp invitations, emails, and admissions meetings are all meaningless unless they are personalized.
Myth: There is a dream school, a backup school, and a safety school.
For non-athletes, this method of applying to colleges is effective; nevertheless, if you wish to play sports in college, it is critical to cast a wide net. Diversify your search by looking for other Divisions, academic demands, and sorts of programs to broaden your options. Please keep in mind that a school’s Division does not pigeonhole the level of performance; there is a vast spectrum of talent at each tier of the organization. Speak with coaches at a range of different levels. You could be surprised to learn that your desired school is located somewhere you hadn’t previously considered or even recognized.
With a deluge of material available, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of it when looking to get hired. Ultimately, what you decide is vital, but don’t let your to-do list override your instincts. Choose a school that motivates and inspires you. Take note of the areas where you can see yourself playing, learning, and growing for the next four years as you are touring campuses. At the end of the day, you’ll probably enjoy a variety of educational institutions. Pay attention for the campus that will return your affection.
