A New Dawn for College Soccer

The winds of change are blowing through American college soccer — and this time, it’s not just a tweak to the format. It’s a revolution.

A U.S. Soccer–backed committee, known as the “NexGen College Soccer Committee,” has officially recommended a landmark overhaul that would shift men’s college soccer to a full academic-year season — beginning fall 2026.

The goal? To modernize the college game, improve player development, and finally align it with the global calendar. If approved by the NCAA, this would be one of the most transformative moves in college soccer history.

For decades, college soccer has operated under a condensed, chaotic fall season — with players juggling classes, 3-games-per-week schedules, and little rest. The result? Burnout, injuries, and limited development windows.

The proposed structure would change everything:

• Season Length: August to April, with a winter break for rest and academics.

• Competition Format: Teams play regionally and in performance-based tiers — a U.S. version of promotion and relegation.

• NCAA Tournament: Moved to May, giving it the spotlight it deserves and avoiding overlap with other championships.

• Player Eligibility: Introducing a “second chance” system, allowing players who turn pro early — but later return — to regain college eligibility.

It’s a vision that keeps education at the core but aligns U.S. soccer with the rhythms of the world’s game.

U.S. Soccer expects a similar recommendation for the women’s game soon, coinciding with rapid growth across the women’s landscape — from the NWSL’s new second division to the launch of WPSL Pro, collectively adding more than 1,000 professional roster spots nationwide.

If passed, this new structure could redefine the bridge between college and pro soccer — bringing America one step closer to becoming a true global powerhouse in player development.

PRESENTED BY COLLEGE COACHES SHOWCASE CAMPS

Recruiting Readiness: 5 Keys to Getting Recruited

Dreaming of playing college soccer? The journey starts long before signing day. Whether you’re aiming for Division I or looking to find the right fit academically and athletically, your preparation determines your opportunity.

Here are 5 keys to getting recruited that every aspiring college player should know:

1. Build Your Player Profile
   Coaches need more than highlights — they need context. Create a clear, professional player profile that includes your GPA, graduation year, position, club team, and measurable stats. Include a short highlight reel that showcases your strengths and soccer IQ.

2. Be Proactive, Not Passive
   Waiting to “get discovered” isn’t a strategy. Research schools, learn about their programs, and reach out directly to coaches with personalized emails. Persistence and professionalism go a long way.

3. Play in Front of the Right Eyes
   Exposure matters — and that’s where events like CCSC Camps make all the difference. You’ll train and compete directly in front of college coaches from across divisions, building connections that can shape your future.

4. Master the Follow-Up
   After a showcase or camp, follow up with the coaches who watched you play. Send a thank-you email, include updated video links, and keep them informed about your upcoming matches or achievements.

5. Stay Ready — On and Off the Field
   Recruiting is about more than just skill. Your academic discipline, attitude, and leadership all play a role in a coach’s decision. Control what you can — your work ethic, mindset, and consistency — and opportunity will follow.

If you’re serious about playing college soccer, start your recruiting journey today with College Coaches Showcase Camp — where players and college programs connect.

10% Off Discount Code: FootyFall25

NCCA DIVISION I SOCCER

🌲 Stanford’s Statement: Still No. 1

The top team in the country just keeps on rolling.

No. 1 Stanford delivered yet another clinical performance this weekend, defeating Pittsburgh 2–0 behind goals from Palmer Bank and Trevor Islam. The win marked the Cardinal’s best-ever home start (8-0 at Cagan Stadium) and extended their winning streak to five straight.

Head coach Jeremy Gunn praised his team’s resilience:

“We were frustrated in the first half, but we stayed composed and showed our mental and physical strength. This was the complete performance we’ve been building toward.”

Stanford’s defensive wall remains unmatched — seven clean sheets in their last nine matches — a testament to their discipline and championship mentality.

The Cardinal now sit three points clear atop the ACC, looking every bit like a program built for another deep postseason run.

From Academy to MLS: Oscar Avilez Signs with D.C. United

Big news in the nation’s capital: 15-year-old forward Oscar Avilez has officially signed a Homegrown contract with D.C. United, keeping him with the club through 2028 (with options for 2029 and 2030).

Avilez becomes the 22nd academy product to sign professionally — joining Jackson Hopkins, Gavin Turner, and Kristian Fletcher as part of a new generation emerging from D.C.’s youth system.

Originally from Choluteca, Honduras, Avilez joined D.C. United’s academy in 2024 after developing with Virginia Rush. Since then, he’s made 39 appearances across multiple age groups, scoring 12 goals and assisting six — including a hat trick at MLS NEXT Flex earlier this year.

“Oscar’s talent created this opportunity, but his commitment and work ethic made it real,” said Academy Director Kevin Flanagan. “He has the potential and character to keep growing and make an impact at the next level.”

Avilez recently earned his first U.S. U-16 national team call-up in September — a milestone moment for a player already writing the next chapter of the D.C. United Homegrown legacy.