When Should I get a Recruiting Highlight Video?
As you navigate the recruitment process, you might be pondering two key questions: "Should I create a soccer recruiting video?" and "When is the right time to do it?" Drawing from my personal experience of playing college soccer and now being actively involved in coaching, I've witnessed firsthand the significant role that recruiting videos play for young players in the world of college soccer.
Should I Create a Recruiting Video? Absolutely. College coaches can't be everywhere at once, and it's impractical for them to attend every event or watch every potential recruit play in person. This is where a well-crafted recruiting video becomes invaluable. It provides coaches with a comprehensive overview of your abilities and what you can bring to their program. If they express interest after viewing your game footage, they are more likely to make an effort to see you in action. On the flip side, without a recruiting video and only a general interest email, the chances are higher that they might not prioritize watching you play live, especially if your schedule doesn't align with theirs. In some cases, a well-prepared recruiting video alone can kickstart the recruiting conversation with schools. By creating a recruiting video, you not only gain additional exposure but also navigate the complexities of college soccer recruitment more effectively.
When Is the Right Time to Create a Recruiting Video? The timing of creating or commissioning a soccer recruiting video is indeed crucial. It's particularly advantageous to prepare one just before attending events like ECNL, MLS Next, or major club soccer tournaments. These events often provide a list of confirmed attending college coaches on their websites. Having an updated video that highlights your recent games is essential, and sharing it with coaches who plan to be present is a strategic move.
Consider the amount of emails that college coaches receive before a showcase event. With limited time and numerous games to choose from, coaches must be selective about which teams and players they watch. Including a highlight video with your email expressing interest significantly increases your chances of getting noticed. If they watch a concise video showcasing your skills and find you align with their recruit criteria, there's a higher likelihood they'll attend one of your showcase games. From there, it's up to you to shine. Convincing a college coach to attend your game can be challenging, but sending a recruiting video before the event undoubtedly enhances your odds.
Another suitable occasion to consider creating a highlight video is when you plan to participate in college ID camps. Reach out to the school, introduce yourself, express your interest, and attach your recruiting video to the email. A well-produced video showcasing your abilities at a high-level raises their interest before you set foot on their campus. If your video is convincing, it continues to fuel their interest throughout your time at the ID camp, putting the spotlight on your name when you play in front of them.
If you have a general interest or have recently encountered an injury during a critical phase of the recruiting process, it's an appropriate time to consider a highlight video. Dusting off old game footage and creating a recruiting video can draw attention to your name as you progress through the recruiting journey.
In conclusion, a soccer recruiting video can be your most powerful tool in attracting the attention of college coaches. It's your opportunity to shine and demonstrate why you're a valuable addition to their team. Don't underestimate the impact of this crucial element in the world of college soccer recruitment.
If you are in need of a recruiting highlight video here are a couple of different sources that you can reach out to.
NCSA provides great isnsight into what makes a great highlight video. Get Recruited | NCSA (ncsasports.org)
Prospect reels produces “high quality sports highlight videos so you can market your athletic skills to college coaches, recruiters and others who can help you get recruited. Sports Recruiting Videos | Sports Highlight Videos | Sports Videography (prospectreels.com)
HUDL provides on top of film storage the ability to have a highlight video created (College Recruiting Guide for Athletes | Hudl Support)
If you're in search of a soccer-specific recruiting video provider, consider Tekkers Media. Our video editing team comprises players who have competed at the highest levels of soccer in the United States. They possess the expertise to understand precisely what college coaches seek in specific positions. With a personalized approach, they craft a recruiting highlight video that not only represents you as a player but also instills confidence when sharing it with college coaches.