One of the biggest questions in college soccer recruiting is, “How much does the league you play in matter?”
While competing in top leagues like ECNL, MLS Next, GA, or NPL can provide exposure, the reality is that success in recruiting isn’t just about the league, it’s about how you perform, how you market yourself and how you take advantage of opportunities.
Some think just by playing in a league they will go DI or have a better chance of playing in college. I know some kids that only play for their high school for one reason or another and are being recruited.
David Copeland Smith, one of the most well-known soccer private trainers in the industry, breaks this down in a detailed, insightful article, exploring the realities of recruiting, debunking myths about playing at “top” programs and highlighting why work ethic and persistence matter more than league status. It’s a long, but valuable read for any athlete navigating their recruiting journey.
For those still deciding on a club, I’ve put together my own insights about club soccer and return on investment along with a worksheet to help you make the best choice for your future.
Dan Rothert, founder of TSA Recruiting, has helped almost 200 prospects and their families land opportunities at right fit colleges at all levels. Each prospect has different priorities in what they are looking for in a college and has different qualities that a coach may or may not be looking for. TSA Recruiting leverages Dan’s almost 30 years of college coaching experience and connections to help those they work with find great opportunities that fit their needs.