Build the School List

The school list is where many families fail. They build a dream list, not a recruiting list. A dream list is based on emotion. A recruiting list is based on fit. The player may love a famous school. That is fine. Put it on the dream list. But do not let dream schools replace realistic schools. School List Categories Every player should build multiple categories. Reach Soccer / Reach Academic These are difficult schools athletically, academically, or both. Keep a few. Do not build the entire strategy around them. Fit Soccer / Fit Academic These are the core targets. The player appears to fit the soccer level, academic profile, geography, and family budget range. This is where most energy should go. Safety Soccer / Safety Academic These are schools where the player has a stronger chance of admission and soccer fit. Do not treat safety schools as insults. They are risk management. Financially Realistic Every school must eventually pass the financial filter. A school that the family cannot afford is not a fit until the aid package says otherwise. Player-Owned Schools The player should have schools they actually care about. Do not build a list only around parent prestige. Criteria to Include For each school, track: Division Conference Roster size Current players by position Graduation years in player’s position Style of play if known Academic fit Major availability Admissions profile Location Total cost Aid possibilities Coach contact Camp dates Response status Fit rating Next action This is not complicated.