It’s that time of year again! No, not the holidays—ID Camp Season. If you’re a soccer parent, you’re probably hearing a lot about showcases, ID camps, and college commitments. Soccer ID camps have become a big part of the recruiting process for many student-athletes. Like everything else, they come with pros and cons. Let’s break it down so you can navigate the process with confidence.
This article comes from Gloria Cid-Stitt, Founder of US Soccer Parent, a platform dedicated to helping parents navigate the ups and downs of youth soccer in the U.S. From the early days of rec leagues to the intense world of college recruiting, Gloria shares real talk, tips, and insights to help families make sense of it all.
As a soccer mom herself, she knows the journey firsthand and is passionate about supporting parents every step of the way.
What Are Soccer ID Camps?
Soccer ID camps are run by college programs to evaluate potential recruits. These events, usually lasting 1-3 days, give coaches a chance to assess players’ skills, fitness, and overall fit for their program. While some independent camps feature multiple college coaches, we’ll focus on the ones hosted by specific schools.
Related: ID Camps: Here's What to Know
Why Attend an ID Camp?
✅ Direct Exposure to College
You get to showcase your skills directly in front of the decision-makers, such as college coaches. For older players, this could lead to direct contact and potential recruitment opportunities.
✅ In-Depth Evaluation
Unlike short showcase games, ID camps give coaches extended time to assess players in drills, scrimmages, and even tactical sessions. Plus, you might receive direct feedback from the coaches, which is invaluable.
✅ Campus Experience
Most ID camps take place on college campuses, giving players a taste of college life. This firsthand experience can help them envision whether a school is the right fit.
✅ Skill Development
Beyond evaluation, these camps push players out of their comfort zone with high-level training. The competition can challenge young athletes in ways their regular team environment may not.
Things to Consider Before Signing Up
❌ Cost
ID camps aren’t cheap. Between registration fees, travel, and accommodations, costs add up—especially if you attend multiple camps. However, some options can help:
- U.S. Soccer Talent ID Centers (IDCs): Free one-day events for top players.
- Soccer Stars Foundation: Offers financial aid for players who qualify.
- College-Specific Financial Aid: Some schools provide discounts or fee waivers.
❌ Time Commitment
Camps require several days of your time, which can be tough to balance with school and club soccer. Even if camps avoid school days, travel logistics can still be challenging.
❌ No Guarantees
Attending an ID camp does not mean automatic recruitment. With dozens (sometimes hundreds) of players in attendance, standing out takes more than just showing up.
❌ Varying Quality
Not all camps are created equal. Some are genuine recruiting tools, while others feel more like money-makers. Research before committing.
Are ID Camps Right for Your Athlete?
This should be a family decision. If your player’s club or academy coach is experienced with college recruiting, ask for their honest feedback. Coaches see things from a different perspective and can help guide the process.
Making the Most of an ID Camp
If you’re going, make it count!
✔️ Do Your Homework – Research the camps, the schools, and the coaches attending.
✔️ Talk to Others – Ask parents and players who’ve attended before.
✔️ Prepare Mentally & Physically – Expect nerves, competition, and intensity.
✔️ Bring the Right Mindset – Coaches look at attitude and work ethic just as much as skill.
✔️ Seek Feedback – Take criticism constructively and apply what you learn.
✔️ Follow Up – Send thank-you emails to coaches and stay in touch if you’re serious about a program.
More Tips for Parents
- Stay Positive – Your encouragement matters.
- Manage Expectations – ID camps are just one step in the process.
- Stay Organized – Track camp dates, emails, and follow-ups.
- Keep the Lines Open – Talk to your player about their goals and feelings.
- Encourage Balance – School, soccer, and downtime all matter.
Common Mistakes Parents Should Avoid
🚫 Overemphasizing Results – Experience and development matter more than instant recruitment.
🚫 Neglecting Academics – Coaches recruit student-athletes, not just athletes.
🚫 Micromanaging – Let your player take ownership of their journey.
🚫 Ignoring Feedback – Coaches’ advice is gold—listen and apply it.
🚫 Skipping Research – Not all camps are worth the investment. Choose wisely.
🚫 Overloading the Schedule – Too many camps can lead to burnout.
🚫 Forgetting the Fun – If the process becomes too stressful, it can drain the joy out of the game.
Final Thoughts
Soccer ID camps can be a great tool in the college recruiting journey, but they require careful planning. Weigh the costs, time, and effort before committing. And remember—ID camps are just one part of the process.
The real key? Keep working hard, perform well in your club season, and maintain strong academics. If your player stays focused, they’ll maximize their chances of catching a coach’s eye.
Contributing Author — Gloria Cid-Stitt, Founder, US Soccer Parent (& Soccer Mom)
