The Coronavirus pandemic and its spread throughout the country has created mass uncertainty and unpredictability in all of our lives. Navigating the new normal is important for those who want to play college soccer in 2021, 2022 and beyond, especially since we don't know when the pre-pandemic recruiting process will return.
There are several key points to keep in mind as sports ramp up around the country:
● Be Safe - First and foremost, follow local guidelines and help stop the spread of the coronavirus and to keep you and your family and friends safe and healthy. The sooner we can get ahead of this disease, the quicker college recruiting can restart. Even if younger people are far less likely to experience a negative outcome of COVID-19, that doesn’t mean that it won’t have any impact on you. That means we all must wear a mask, and social distance whenever possible.
● Do your research - You have more time off the field and are likely playing a lighter schedule. Use this opportunity to dig deep into various schools, levels and programs that could be a good fit.
● Reach out - Communicating over the next few months could be even more important, since coaches will have more time to look at highlight videos. When you're in touch with a coach, always include pertinent information about yourself including your GPA, SAT, current club team and current coach’s contact information. Include your player profile sheet if you have one (you can also create one on TopDrawerSoccer.com). Make it personal -- include what you enjoy about that school or why you believe you would be a good fit for that program. If you plan to visit a school, make sure to check out whatever Covid-related policies they have in place for unnofficial visits.
● Stay On Top of Your Game - Stay sharp and in playing shape so you're ready to go when games resume. Showing that kind of discipline will catch the attention of a college coach.
● Create a highlight reel - If you don't have one yet, create one. Try to obtain access to old games and training sessions. While most coaches won’t make an offer based on a video, having something that shows your strengths is a must-do at this point. Your reel should focus on specific aspects of your game that you think are the strongest (passing, dribbling, defending, etc.). And keep it short -- 3 to 4 minutes is best, but feel free to include a longer highlight video as well.
Women’s Recruiting
Expand your search. Many coaches may have already finalized their recruits for 2021. Spots at your dream school might still open up as players re-evaluate their options during this time, but it's important to keep your options open given the changing landscape.
If you are a 2021 graduate and you are just getting started on this process, get your reel created and cleaned up as soon as you can and start drafting emails to your top schools.
For 2022 recruits, communication with college coaches resumed in June and plenty of coaches were active during that time in reaching out to players. Women’s soccer typically recruits earlier so many programs have already done a lot of work for that year.
For the other classes, begin getting all of your materials in order and keep all of these in mind as you weigh your options. Don't get your mind set on one school because a lot may change before it's go-time.
Also some great info on the NCSA Site about managing this crazy time.
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