Sophomore year

As your interests, academics, and soccer skills continue to develop, it’s important to update your list of potential schools. Take a hard look at the schools you’re interested in and consider whether they’re a good fit not just academically, but also athletically.

Ask yourself:

• What level of soccer program matches my abilities and goals?
• Do the schools on my list meet my academic, social, and personal priorities?

It’s okay to start broad and narrow down your list over time. Your preferences may change, and that’s completely normal.

Set Athletic Expectations:

Understanding your role on your current team can help you determine the level of college program that fits you. Think about these questions:

• Are you an impact player, a core player, or a role player on your club team?
• What do you want out of your college soccer experience: playing time, competition level, or overall development?
• How would you fit into the programs you’re observing at the college level?

Honest conversations with your club coach are invaluable. They can help guide you toward programs that match your skill level and personal goals. Also, consider how you’d feel if playing time were limited or if an injury prevented you from competing. Would the school still feel like a good fit?

While most on-field evaluations happen later, Sophomore year is a good time to start thinking about being seen by college coaches. Whether at showcase events or college ID camps, you’ll want to present yourself professionally and confidently.

Where to Be Evaluated:

• Showcases: Give coaches a chance to see you in a competitive setting and observe how you interact with teammates and coaches.
• College ID Camps: These school-specific camps provide a closer look at prospective players and allow coaches to assess your fit within their program.

How to Act During Evaluations:

• Be yourself - don’t overplay or try to impress unnaturally.
• Learn from mistakes and respond positively.
• Communicate constructively with teammates.
• Show respect to coaches, referees, and opponents.

Pay attention to body language; evaluation starts the moment you arrive and continues until you leave.

Even though Division I & II coaches cannot contact you until June 15 following your Sophomore year, Division III coaches can reach out at any time. Use this time to prepare for professional communication with college programs.

Player Profile: Create a snapshot of who you are as a student-athlete. Include details, such as:

• Name, graduating class, and contact info
• Academic info (GPA, test scores, preferred area of study, high school)
• Club team and position(s)
• Jersey number, playing accomplishments, and upcoming events
• Club coach and contact information

Highlight Reel: Start compiling clips of your play to show your strengths. Keep it concise and position-focused. Coaches want to see your skills, decision-making, and overall ability. Ensure your clips clearly show you, avoid inappropriate music, and highlight your key attributes.

Players can start reaching out to college coaches, but remember that DI & DII coaches can only respond with general camp information until June 15 following your Sophomore year, while DIII coaches may respond at any time.

Plan to send introductory emails along with your player profile and highlight reel. Draft professional, concise messages that clearly present who you are and why you’re interested in the program.