How To Get a Soccer Scholarship
Step-by-step Instructions
Here is what you need to do...
Step 1
Practice. Simple enough. You can't get paid to play if no one wants you to play for them. My advice is to focus on your game and not worry too much about scholarship money. If your abilities are where they need to be, schools will tend to approach YOU. Universities are pretty proactive about recruiting.
Step 2
Network. Talk to college players, fellow high school players, and yes, (gasp) players on opposing teams... Research, visit schools, look for scouts at your high school games (they are there) go to college camps and meet coaches.
Step 3
Keep your grades up. Poor academics can negate scholarship opportunities, but good grades can significantly increase your chances of landing a good offer.
Step 4
Get your name out there. I played against this kid in the state semifinals my junior year. He had alot of hype around his name, and he was good. He wasn't great, but he managed to get nearly a full ride to a prestigious school due largely to his networking skills. Before the game, my team sat eating dinner and watching this guy's youtube video of himself juggling, dribbling... basically he put on a self-imposed tryout that any scout could watch with the click of a button. Not only did this show his abilities off, but also how serious and dedicated he was to his game.
Step 5
Finally, be easy to get along with. Coaches aren't just looking for the guy or girl with the quickest feet, slickest shot, or best field awareness. All of these things are indispensable, but having a bad attitude might just knock you out of the running no matter how perfect your moves. Ever heard the phrase "A bad apple spoils the bunch?" Listen, if there wasn't a bad apple on any of your teams growing up, I'm going to fill you in here. The saying is gospel. And no place is it more evident than in the intense atmosphere of collegiate soccer. Your teammates will become your family, and coaches are not looking for an egotistical hotshot to ruin the team chemistry. With this in mind, do your best to exercise humility and tact wherever you are, but especially for this purpose, in front of potential coaches and teammates.
Special Attention
Difficulties people often experience or parts that need special attention to do it right.
The bottom line is that you have to sell yourself a little bit. You are the product AND the salesperson. If you're good, people will want you to play for them. They'll often times approach you, so have what you'd like them to know in mind. Are you looking for a big school? How much money? Don't worry about it too much though. Let your game do the work for you, and have fun. This is a big step.
Stuff You'll Need
| Brand | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fisher Athletic Fisher Ar10001 Pop Up Dummy Claw Arms | $86.49 |
Suggested Further Reading
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This Student Author's Background
When did you first do this & how did you get started?
Over the years I've had the privilege of sharing the field with some talented players. Some now play professionally, but even more were able to parlay their skills on the pitch into substantial scholarship money from a school of their choice. I made a decision to not pursue collegiate soccer, but I saw the recruitment process unfold for many of my friends and teammates during high school.