Find Your Balance
- Academics + Athletics + Social = Personal Growth
Choosing for Academics
- Degree or Field of Study Offered
- Small or Large Class Sizes
- Taught by Professors or Graduate Assistants
- Flexible Major or Individualized Degree Programs
- Preparation and Placement into Prestigious Graduate Schools or Work Force
- Cost
Choosing for Athletics
- How Soon Will I Get to Play?
- How Important Is It to Play for a Winning Program?
- What is the Commitment Level Expected of Me by the Program?
- Is a Scholarship Available for Me?
- At What Level of Play am I Capable?
- Do I Aspire to Play Professionally?
What Does It Take To Play College Soccer?
- Technical - The ability to master the ball so that speed of play is as fast as possible.
- Tactical - (1) Being able to recognize what is happening on the field. (2) Executing decisions that maximize benefit to your team and hurt the other team the most.
- Physical - Mostly inherited, physical speed, strength, agility, and quickness can separate players.
- Psychological - The capacity to deal with adversity. A Player’s composure, confidence, concentration, and commitment.
- Academics - Solid core-course preparation and GPA. Adequate to above average test scores.
Choosing for Social
- Big school or small school
- Big city, small city, or rural college town
- Geographic location
- Greek organization membership
- Student-Government/Leadership opportunities
- Diversity of student population
NCAA Initial Eligibility Clearinghouse
- Understand limited nature of available athletic funds; predict a school’s scholarship budget for your freshman year
- Recognize that most student-athletes are “packaged” (government, academic, and athletic aid)
- Take tests junior year, apply early to colleges, have 3-4 school suitable to your needs who are interested in you
- Establish a family financial plan; know your limits!
- Be open and honest with coaches during negotiations
- Attempt to not let money be the overriding decision
Organizing Your College Future - The 3 P’s
Be Proactive -- Continuous evaluation and prioritization of academic and athletic goals.
Be Persistent -- Continuously express your interest in the school and program of your choice
Be Prepared -- Satisfy all necessary academic and athletic eligibility requirements