Creating a strong soccer recruiting video is a critical part of the college recruiting process, especially since coaches may not always have the chance to see players compete in person. A well-crafted video can serve as an athlete’s introduction to college coaches, allowing them to showcase their abilities in a way that makes a lasting impression. Here’s what you need to know to create a standout soccer recruiting video:

How to Make a Soccer Skills Video

1. Showcase Full Potential: Ensure that the video captures an athlete performing at full speed, as it will demonstrate their real game potential.
2. Simple Setup: Use everyday objects like cones or water bottles to set up drills that mimic real gameplay.
3. Use Available Space: Whether it’s a backyard, park, or field, film in a location that allows for dynamic movements and drills.
4. Goalkeeper Videos: Goalies should showcase specific drills like hand-eye coordination and reflexes, even using creative tools like tennis balls.

Where to Get Highlight Video Footage

• Game Footage Over Practice: Coaches prefer seeing in-game footage as it reflects how an athlete makes decisions and reacts to real-game situations. The goal is to show the athlete’s vision, movement, and decision-making on the pitch.

College Soccer Recruiting Video Tips

• High Vantage Point: Film from a higher angle to give coaches a better perspective of how the player interacts with the field.
• Stabilize Footage: Use a tripod for smooth, stable video. Shooting in landscape mode is ideal.
• Wide View: Show enough of the field so coaches can see how the athlete uses space and makes decisions with and without the ball.

How Long Should a Soccer Recruiting Video Be?

• 3–6 Minutes: The video should be short and impactful, including 20-25 clips that showcase the player’s best moments.

Position-Specific Tips for Soccer Highlight Videos

• Defenders: Highlight defensive skills such as one-on-one defending, intercepting passes, blocking shots, and getting into the attack.
• Midfielders: Show both offensive and defensive abilities, off-the-ball movement, playmaking, and passing skills.
• Wingers: Focus on speed, crossing ability, and well-timed runs to beat defenders.
• Defensive Center-Midfielders: Display consistency, air dominance, and strong distribution skills.
• Attacking Center-Midfielders: Highlight technical control, quick decision-making, and the ability to create scoring opportunities.
• Forwards: Feature goals, assists, dribbling, and finishing ability, particularly in high-pressure situations.
• Goalkeepers: Show both skills footage and match footage, with a focus on shot-stopping, diving, distribution, and handling breakaways.

Editing Tips: How to Pick the Right Plays

• Start Strong: Hook the coach with impressive plays in the first 30 seconds.
• Highlight Key Skills: Make sure the video shows a variety of skills specific to the player’s position.
• Simple Markers: Use arrows or spotlights to identify the player in each clip.
• Include Contact Information: At both the beginning and end of the video, provide the athlete’s and coach’s contact information.

Soccer Recruiting Video Services

If you’re unsure about creating a video on your own, consider professional services. NCSA offers video editing assistance to help create a standout recruiting video.

By following these guidelines, athletes can maximize their chances of grabbing the attention of college coaches and making a strong first impression.