The NCAA and NAIA have specific guidelines on when recruiting communication can take place. Knowing these men’s soccer recruiting rules helps athletes and their families stay organized and avoid missing key opportunities.
Knowing the NCAA and NAIA recruiting rules is key to a successful soccer journey.
Coaches can begin contacting athletes directly by phone, email, or messages.
Athletes may start taking official (school-funded) and unofficial (self-funded) visits.
Most verbal offers occur between the sophomore and junior years, but timing varies by each program’s needs.
Knowing the NCAA and NAIA recruiting rules is key to a successful soccer journey.
Coaches can begin contacting athletes directly by phone, email, or messages.
Coaches may begin official communication.
Official and unofficial visits allowed.
Knowing the NCAA and NAIA recruiting rules is key to a successful soccer journey.
Official visits are allowed starting January 1 of junior year, but many coaches prioritize academics and character in early evaluations.
Many coaches evaluate players at showcases as early as 9th grade, even before contact is allowed.
Heavier evaluations start in 10th–11th grade.
Often recruit into senior year and beyond.
Focus on skill development, strong academics, and start gathering game footage.
Create your first highlight reel and begin researching potential schools.
This is the prime recruiting period — email coaches regularly, attend ID camps, and compete in top showcases.
Last call for opportunities — keep updating your film, expand your target list, and consider NAIA or JUCO programs if D1 or D2 options aren’t available.
Do you have questions? Perhaps you will find an answer below.
The recruiting calendar can be confusing, especially with different rules for each division. StudBud helps athletes know what to do at every step and connects them directly with coaches.
Have questions? Want to know how to get started? Fill out the form below, and one of our advisors will respond shortly.
