In Episode 158, we are re-casting our conversation with Don Williams, Head of Operations for the Americas for Sports Recruiting USA and former coach at all levels of soccer, who talked with Phil about the #1 tool college coaches use to find recruits, how soccer players can find the “right fit,” the recruiting implications of the small world of college and pro soccer, “punching coaches in the nose” with player emails and videos, and real-world lessons kids can learn through the recruiting process. Specifically, Don discusses:

·      His story and how he developed his passion for soccer, leadership, and his long journey to SRUSA Soccer (3:31)

·      How Don’s work with SRUSA is similar to his work as a coach of soccer teams at all levels (7:19)

·      The need for players to have both raw athleticism and passion for the sport to play at the college level and beyond (13:06)

·      The importance of soccer players finding the “right fit” and how they can do so (18:00)

·      Why creating and knowing your budget is critical in the recruiting process (25:53)

·      Selling yourself and not burying the lead in your videos, emails, and other recruiting communications with prospective colleges (and employers) (34:53)

·      The importance of “punching someone in the nose” in the recruiting process (39:17)

·      How to make videos on a tight budget (42:58)

·      Making the kids put in the work with their videos, emails, and other areas of the recruiting process (45:33)

·      The small world of college and pro soccer, and how it relates to the world outside the game (46:58)

·      The #1 tool that college coaches use to find recruits (51:46)

·      What most coaches are looking for when they recruit at tournaments and showcases (57:08)

·      Showing the colleges (or employer) that you’ve done your homework on them and that you know why you think it’s the right fit for you (1:01:44)

·      Real world lessons kids can learn during the recruiting process (1:05:50)

·      How to grab a coach’s attention in a subject line and email (1:08:56)

·      How Don is using lessons learned in soccer in his life outside the game (1:12:22)

·      Don’s book recommendations

Resources and Links from this Episode

·      Uncut Video of the Episode

·      HSEL Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/howsoccerexplainsleadership

·      Don’s Twitter handle -- @Don_K_Williams

·      SRUSA Website -- https://www.sportsrecruitingusa.com

·      How Soccer Explains the World, by Franklin Foer

·      Inside Out Coaching, by Joe Ehrmann

·      10% Happier, by Dan Harris

·      Inside College Soccer Podcast -- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-college-soccer/id1480369430