In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about college soccer showcases including what they are, who attends, and how recruiting really works at these events.

We talk through the different types of showcases, how they’re formatted, and what happens behind the scenes when college coaches are evaluating players. We also discuss strategies for athletes and parents to make the most of these experiences, from communication tips to preparation tips that help players stand out if they are exploring this path.

References

ECNL article:Elite Clubs National League. (2025, April 17). ECNL announces 2025–26 national event schedule. https://theecnl.com/news/2025/4/17/ecnl-announces-2025-26-national-event-schedule.aspx

PLOS ONE research article:Gouthro, K. F., Bergmann, M., Arseneau, E., Moher, M., & Edwards, J. (2024). How do college coaches in the United States identify youth soccer talent? PLOS ONE, 19(7), Article e0331134. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0331134

Our first mini-series couldn’t end without a special bonus episode. In this feature, we asked Valentina’s former college coach to share his perspective on college ID camps, offering valuable insight into how to truly stand out in a large pool of players, how athletes can follow up effectively after camps, and how to choose camps strategically.

An insightful conversation for parents and athletes alike, closing out our ID Camp mini-series with practical advice straight from the coaching side.

In Part 2 of our mini-series on college soccer ID camps, we share what these experiences were like for us — both as players attending and as coaches helping run them.

We talk about what made certain camps valuable, what ended up not being worth it, and the lessons that helped us better understand what these events may or may not be able to offer depending on your goals. We also share a few suggested do’s and don’ts to help athletes and parents make the most of ID camps, regardless of the desired outcome.

What is an ID camp/clinic? In Part 1 of our mini-series on college soccer identification (ID) camps, we give an overview of what they are, who hosts them, who attends, and what actually happens once you’re there. Our conversation is for anyone looking for a quick and digestible way to understand the basics of these events.

Stay tuned for Part 2 where we'll discuss our experiences and thoughts on investing in these camps.

In this episode we talk about what “leveling up” really means, from building consistency and confidence to focusing on the technical details that often get overlooked.

Rory shares his experience finding that next gear as a player, and Valentina reflects on what she wishes she had done differently.

Whether soccer is your top priority or just one part of your life, this conversation is about showing up with intention, developing smarter habits, and defining growth on your own terms.

Parents with college-bound athletes, we are here for you. In this episode, we walk through the different levels of college soccer your athlete can explore. As former Division I players, we share honest reflections on the environments we experienced along with positive stories from peers who thrived at other levels.

There truly is a level for everyone. Understanding what your athlete wants out of their college experience is key to helping them make a choice that benefits them most in the long run.

References:

McMahan, Ian. “What It’s Like to Retire in Your Early 20s.” The Atlantic, Jan. 2, 2023.

If you’re a high-school athlete considering college soccer, this episode is for you. We reflect on the decisions we faced when we were in your shoes , what shaped our choices, what we wish we had known earlier, and the tactics that could have made those decisions less overwhelming.

We talk about why no recruiting process is ever as straightforward as it seems, the ups and downs you can expect, and how to figure out whether college soccer is truly something you want, not just something you feel pressured to pursue.

If you’re a parent of a 9- to 12-year-old soccer player, you’ve probably asked yourself at some point: Should we switch clubs?

In this episode of Path to Play, Valentina and Rory unpack the real signs that it might be time for a change, and when it’s worth sticking it out. We talk about what healthy development might look like at this age, red flags that could damage a kid’s love for the game, and how to keep “fun, confidence, and growth” at the center of your decision.

This is a grounded, experience-based conversation for parents who want their child to stay connected to soccer, enjoy the game, and keep improving without unnecessary pressure.

In our second episode of Path to Play, Valentina shares her athletic journey from the early years in youth soccer to playing at the Division 1 college level. She reflects on the phases that shaped her and highlights some challenges and lessons learned along the way.

This is a story for any young athlete who’s figuring out their own path and for parents who want to better understand what that journey feels like from the inside.

In our very first episode of Path to Play, Rory shares his journey through youth and college soccer. The highs, the setbacks, and the lessons learned along the way. From early club days to the Division 1 college experience, Rory gives an honest look at what went well, what could’ve gone better, and what he’d tell young athletes navigating similar paths today.

This episode sets the tone for what Path to Play is all about: real conversations, no fluff, and raw experiences you can take with you on your own youth sports journey.