The Best Questions to Ask on a College Soccer Visit
For any young soccer player dreaming of playing at the next level, a college visit can be both exciting and overwhelming. These visits give you a chance to get a feel for the school, meet the team and coaching staff, and imagine what life might look like there. But if you want to make the most of it, preparing the right questions can make all the difference.
In this blog post, we’ll break down the essential questions you should ask during your college soccer visit—whether it’s an official or unofficial visit—to make sure you walk away with the information you need to make the best decision for your future.
Why Your Questions Matter
Asking smart, well-thought-out questions shows coaches you’re serious. It also helps you:
Compare schools more effectively
Understand the team culture and coaching style
Make a decision that’s right for you, not just based on hype
Remember: This is your future. Don’t be afraid to ask the tough or detailed questions.
Questions for the Coach
1. What is your coaching philosophy and style?
This gives you insight into how the coach leads the team, deals with mistakes, and motivates players.
2. What are you looking for in a player—both on and off the field?
This helps you understand the character traits and playing style they value.
3. Where do you see me fitting in on the team?
It’s important to know whether you’re being recruited as a potential starter, a developmental player, or somewhere in between.
4. What does a typical week look like during the season?
Ask about training, travel, lifting, team meetings, and game schedules.
5. What are the expectations during the off-season?
Off-season training can vary widely between programs. Know what you'll be committing to year-round.
6. What support systems exist for injured athletes?
Injuries happen. Find out how the school supports recovery—physically and academically.
7. What does your ideal recruit look like—technically, tactically, physically, and mentally?
This helps you evaluate how you stack up against what they’re targeting.
8. How do you handle playing time decisions and communication?
This can give you a sense of how transparent and open the coach is with players.
9. How many players are you recruiting at my position?
Get a sense of the competition you’ll face.
10. What are the team’s goals over the next few years?
This gives you an idea of the program’s direction and ambition.
Questions for Current Players
1. What is the team culture like?
Sometimes what a coach says and what the players experience are very different. Get the inside scoop.
2. How do players get along off the field?
Team chemistry off the field can directly impact on-field performance and your experience.
3. What does a typical day look like for you during the season?
Get a player’s eye view of the daily grind and schedule.
4. How does the coaching staff treat the players?
Look for patterns. If multiple players feel supported and respected, that’s a good sign.
5. How is the balance between academics and athletics?
You want to thrive in both areas. See how realistic that is on campus.
6. What do you wish you knew before you came here?
This can lead to very honest, helpful answers.
7. Do players stay all four years or do many transfer?
High transfer rates may be a red flag about culture, playing time, or support.
8. What are team travel and road trips like?
Learn about the fun parts and the challenges of competing away from campus.
9. What do you do in the off-season?
Ask about workouts, time off, and whether the team hangs out or trains together informally.
10. Would you choose this program again?
This is one of the most telling questions you can ask.
Questions About Academics
1. What academic support exists for athletes?
Ask about tutoring, study halls, class scheduling, and help during travel.
2. How flexible are professors with travel and game schedules?
See how athletic conflicts are handled and whether faculty are supportive.
3. What are the most popular majors among players?
Sometimes, majors are influenced by how compatible they are with soccer demands.
4. Can I take the major I want and still play here?
If you have a specific career goal (like nursing, engineering, or pre-med), make sure it’s possible.
5. What is the team’s overall GPA or graduation rate?
This gives a clue to how seriously academics are taken.
Questions About Life on Campus
1. What are the dorms like?
Ask about where athletes live, and if there are athlete-specific dorms or communities.
2. What is the food situation?
Good nutrition is crucial. Ask about dining halls, options for athletes, and meal plans.
3. What do players do for fun outside of soccer?
This helps you imagine your social life off the field.
4. How do athletes get around campus?
Is the campus walkable? Do you need a car? Are there shuttles?
5. What’s the town or city like?
Find out if it feels like home and if there’s enough going on to keep you happy.
Questions for Yourself
After you’ve toured the campus, met the coaches, and talked to players, take some time to reflect.
Ask yourself:
Can I see myself here without soccer?
Do I like the campus and surrounding area?
Do I feel like I could belong on this team?
Does this school offer what I want academically?
Am I excited about this opportunity or feeling unsure?
Listen to your gut. It knows more than you think.
Red Flags to Watch For
While every program has its pros and cons, keep an eye out for:
Players who seem unhappy or unmotivated
A coach who avoids answering direct questions
Lack of academic support for athletes
A poor relationship between players and staff
High transfer or injury rates
If something feels off, trust that feeling. Ask follow-up questions or explore other options.
Final Tips
1. Come Prepared
Write down your questions ahead of time. Bring a notebook or take notes on your phone.
2. Be Yourself
Don’t try to be who you think the coach wants. Be honest about what matters to you.
3. Follow Up
Send a thank-you message after your visit. Reiterate your interest and what you liked about the visit.
4. Visit Multiple Schools
Comparison brings clarity. If possible, visit a mix of D1, D2, D3, and NAIA schools.
5. Talk With Your Family and Coaches
Process your thoughts out loud with people you trust.
Conclusion
A college soccer visit is more than just a tour—it’s your chance to picture your future, ask the questions that matter, and decide if a program is truly the right fit for you.
Don’t be shy. Be curious, be confident, and be clear on what you want.
Because this decision is about more than just soccer. It’s about finding a place where you can grow as a student, as an athlete, and as a person.
Good luck on your journey!
