Freshman year

Your freshman year is all about building a solid foundation, both in the classroom and on the field. Every college has its own admission standards, and the NCAA also has academic requirements that student-athletes must meet to be eligible to play during their first year of college.

It’s important to understand these expectations early and make a plan to stay on track. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your school’s academic advisor for help; they’re a great resource for making sure you meet all the right requirements.

To learn more about the NCAA’s academic eligibility guidelines (including GPA, core courses, and more), visit the NCAA Eligibility Center

Playing soccer in college can be an amazing experience as it offers new challenges, friendships, and opportunities you won’t find anywhere else. However, it’s also a big commitment, and it’s not the right path for everyone. Your Freshman year is a great time to start thinking about what college soccer might look like for you and whether it fits your goals, priorities, and lifestyle.

Pros:

• Instant community: You’ll join a team right away, helping you build friendships and feel at home on campus.
• Added structure: Balancing school, soccer, and social life teaches time management and discipline.
• Extra academic support: Many athletic programs offer tutoring, study halls, or advising for student-athletes.
• Teamwork and leadership: You’ll grow on and off the field by working closely with teammates and coaches.
• Travel and experiences: You’ll get to visit new places and compete at a higher level.
• Competitive edge: College athletics can sometimes give you a boost in the admissions process.

Cons:

• Busy schedule: Practices, games, and travel can limit free time and social activities.
• Class conflicts: Practice and travel may restrict when you can take certain classes.
• Academic balance: Staying on top of coursework while traveling can be tough.
• High standards: You’ll need to meet expectations in academics, fitness, and nutrition.
• No guarantees: Earning playing time takes continued effort, even after making the team.

College soccer can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s important to weigh both sides before deciding if it’s the right fit for you.

You don’t need to be in direct contact with college coaches just yet, but Freshman year is a great time to start thinking about what kind of college experience might be the best fit for you. Having a list of schools you’re interested in will make things much easier once it’s time to reach out and start the recruitment process.

When you begin exploring potential colleges, think about what matters most to you, both on and off the field:

• Academic fit: What level of academics and courses interest you?
• Location: Do you see yourself close to home or across the country?
• Campus setting: Would you prefer an urban, suburban, or rural environment
• School size: Do you want a big campus with lots of students or a smaller, tight-knit community?
• Finances: Consider tuition, housing, and potential scholarships or aid options.
• Soccer program level: Be honest about your current level of play and where you might fit best.

It’s perfectly okay to start with a long list - your interests and goals will likely change over time! You can always narrow it down later as you learn more about different schools and programs.