Before it begins, the college placement process can seem like a daunting journey.

But the sooner you start it, as recommended by the experts at IMG Academy Soccer, the better.

“Ideally, the process should begin as a student-athlete enters his/her freshman year in high school,” said Mel Mahler, U15 MLS Head Coach and College Placement Coordinator at IMG Academy Soccer. “IMG has mapped out a four-year timeline for our student-athletes beginning with their freshman year. We believe there are clear steps to take with this process; action boxes to check for the fall, winter, spring and summer time periods. This is a collaborative effort involving both the academic and athletic departments to ensure every IMG Student-Athlete finds the right college for them. We’re proud to say we’re 100% successful with this most important endeavor.”

Start with this question: What makes you different? A player with great grades, test scores, soccer skill, athleticism, mental toughness and coachability is a great recruit. However, the number of these players available each year has now grown exponentially, and these traits are now considered normal. Before reaching out to a college coach you must define who you are and what you can bring to the program.

Here are six crucial points of emphasis identified by IMG Academy Soccer to focus on when beginning the process.

1. Develop a methodology to the recruiting process. Laying out a foundation or strategy during your freshman year can set the process in motion and make the experience more enjoyable and less stressful. IMG Academy has one in place for every student-athlete.

2. Understand that this plan can and will change based on feedback from colleges you’ve expressed interest in. Remember that setbacks are temporary and a new pathway can still lead to a positive result. Pursuing another college can be a positive experience. 

3. Be honest with yourself (follow your dreams but have attainable goals), and be honest with coaches (share your level of interest and be comfortable and respectful should you need to say ‘no’ when not interested in a college).

4. Use the College Counseling Office. They are a valuable resource and it’s important to develop a relationship with your counselor. 

5. Keep an open mind. Every student-athlete will find the right college and avoid comparing your progress to that of your teammates. 

6. Most importantly, the student-athlete must drive the process. Use parents, teachers, counselors and coaches in a supportive role. Coaches want to develop relationships with the players. They welcome conversations with the recruit’s “support team” but at a minimum. Invest time and energy into this endeavor. This is your education, your soccer career; therefore, demonstrate that you have control over this process. 

Already past your freshman year and dreaming of playing soccer? That’s okay. Those tips can be molded, shaped and tailored down depending on a player’s age and grade.

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