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How to Create a Standout Soccer Highlight Video to Impress College Coaches

Jan 18, 2025

How to Create a Standout Soccer Highlight Video to Impress College Coaches

Getting recruited to play college soccer is a dream for many competitive youth players, but standing out in a crowded field can be challenging. One of the best ways to grab a college coach's attention is by creating an effective highlight video. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create a standout soccer highlight video that gets noticed.

Who Is This Blog For?

This guide is perfect for:

  • Soccer players aged 12-18 aiming to play college soccer.

  • Soccer parents navigating the recruiting process and looking for actionable advice to support their athlete’s journey.

If you’re serious about getting recruited and need help with highlight videos, this post is for you!

Why Does a Highlight Video Matter?

College coaches receive hundreds of highlight reels every year. A well-made video can make all the difference in whether your player catches their attention or gets overlooked. It’s your player’s first chance to showcase their skills, soccer IQ, and unique strengths on the field.

5 Steps to Create a Standout Soccer Highlight Video

1️⃣ Start Strong with Your Best Clips

  • Why? Coaches only watch the first 30 seconds to decide if they’ll keep watching.

  • How? Showcase your player’s top moments right away—think game-winning goals, key defensive plays, or standout assists.

2️⃣ Focus on Game Footage

  • Use footage from actual games instead of practice drills.

  • Include clips that highlight your player’s decision-making, teamwork, and athleticism.

3️⃣ Keep It Short and Sweet

  • Length Matters: Aim for 3-5 minutes. College coaches don’t have time to watch longer videos.

  • Choose only the best moments that highlight your player’s abilities.

4️⃣ Label Clips Clearly

  • Add text overlays to identify your player. Include:

    • Name

    • Jersey number

    • Position

    • Contact information

5️⃣ Polish with Professional Editing

  • Use tools like iMovie or Adobe Premiere Pro for a clean, professional finish.

  • Ensure the video is easy to watch, with smooth transitions and clear footage.

Bonus Tip: Be Consistent in Your Recruiting Journey

A great highlight video is just one piece of the puzzle. To maximize your player’s chances, make sure they:

  • Stay active on social media.

  • Participate in ID camps and showcases.

  • Send personalized emails to college coaches with links to their video.

Call to Action: Take Your Recruiting to the Next Level

Want a complete guide to the college recruiting process?
📩 Download my FREE guide: The Ultimate College Soccer Recruiting Roadmap. It’s packed with actionable tips to help your player stand out and navigate the recruiting process with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should be included in a highlight video?

Focus on your player’s best moments, game footage, and key plays that demonstrate their skills, soccer IQ, and athleticism.

How long should a highlight video be?

3-5 minutes is ideal. Coaches don’t have time to watch full games or overly lengthy videos.

When should we send the highlight video to coaches?

Start sending videos early in the recruiting process, typically during sophomore or junior year of high school. Update the video regularly with fresh clips.

Final Thoughts

Creating a standout soccer highlight video is one of the most important steps in your player’s recruiting journey. With the right footage, editing, and strategy, your player can capture the attention of college coaches and take a big step toward achieving their goals.

🚀 Ready to help your player shine? Download the free guide today and start building their path to college soccer success!

Exclusive Resources for Soccer Players & Parents

Want to give your player an edge? These free resources will help with training and recruiting:

📘 The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Soccer Players
A blueprint for building elite habits, discipline, and consistency—on and off the field. → Download here

📕 The Ultimate College Soccer Recruiting Roadmap
A step-by-step guide to navigating the recruiting process, building coach connections, and getting noticed.  Download here

Take Your Training to the Next Level

Are you looking for more structure, accountability, and expert coaching?

We offer three programs tailored for competitive players:

1️⃣ The Training Academy In-person training designed to develop technical skills and soccer IQ.
Learn More

2️⃣ The College Soccer Accelerator Expert recruiting guidance for players serious about college soccer.
Learn More

3️⃣ The Training App On-demand access to elite soccer training anytime, anywhere.
Learn More

Stay Connected with JR7 SOCCER

Question of the Day

If your player could train with one legendary player for a week, who would it be, and what’s the first thing they’d want to learn?

Would they pick Ronaldo’s finishing? Modrić’s midfield control? Van Dijk’s defensive skills?

Drop your answer in the comments! 

About JR7 SOCCER 

At JR7 SOCCER, we help competitive players sharpen their skills, build confidence, and prepare for the next level—whether that’s club, high school, or college soccer.

Our four-pillar method—Nutrition, Mindset, Training, and Recruiting—gives players the tools they need to succeed on and off the field.

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