Soccer recruiting video tips: what college coaches want

College soccer coaches watch a lot of recruiting videos. These tips help yours get watched to the end, and get a reply.

100% free · no card · no sign-up · ready in about 5 minutes

What coaches look for, by position

• Center back: 1v1 defending, winning headers, reading danger early, and passing out of the back under pressure.
• Fullback: recovery runs, overlapping, crossing, and stopping wingers 1v1.
• Central midfield: scanning before you receive, turning out of pressure, and passes that break lines.
• Winger: beating defenders 1v1, end product (crosses, cut-backs, shots), and tracking back.
• Striker: finishing with both feet, movement off the ball, hold-up play, and pressing from the front.
• Goalkeeper: shot-stopping, claiming crosses, 1v1 saves, and distribution. Keepers should make their own separate reel.

Mistakes that get reels skipped

• The coach can't find you. With 22 players on a big field and everyone in the same kit, coaches often can't tell which player they're meant to watch. A spotlight on you at the start of every clip fixes that.
• Too long. Stick to about 3 to 5 minutes. More isn't better.
• Best play buried. Lead with your best clip.
• Only the highlights a fan would like. Coaches also want the unglamorous plays that show your position skills.
• Loud music over everything. Fine for social media, but keep the coach version simple.
• No details. Grad year, position, number, team and contact info belong on the reel.

Timing

NCAA rules limit when college coaches can contact recruits, and the dates differ by sport and division. Coaches can still watch your video before they're allowed to reply, so send it early and follow up with updates. Check the official NCAA recruiting calendar for your sport.

Make my free reel

Questions

Is NetSnap really free?

Yes. You upload your clips, tap your player, and download the finished reel at no cost. No card and no sign-up needed.

How long should a recruiting reel be?

Usually 2 to 5 minutes. Coaches often decide in the first 30 seconds, so put your best plays first.

What footage works?

Phone videos and game film (MP4 or MOV) work. Clips filmed from high up and from the side give the clearest reel.

How do coaches know which player I am?

You tap yourself in each clip, and NetSnap puts a spotlight marker on you at exactly that moment, so a coach knows who to watch before the play starts.

How long does it take?

Your reel is usually ready about five minutes after your clips finish uploading.