Roadmap to College Soccer - Volume 1

Featuring a Current Division 1 Freshman Starter (Addison Halpern - Virginia) and Soon to be D1 player  ([player_tooltip player_id='82736' first='Sophia' last='Canepa'] - Kansas) - Giving perspectives on the recruitment process and tips on making a college team.   USE THE PROMO CODE almasin30 for a discount on your first subscription   This new series of prepping players for college soccer comes at a time where crucial steps in the recruitment process may determine the difference between success and failure.  Although all statistics show that approximately 10.6% of high school girls who play soccer will go on to play at any college level, with about 2.4% competing in NCAA Division I.  With the slimmest of margins to play D1 soccer, getting advice from players who have received offers or currently play for D1 programs can prove to be valuable and insightful.   Since female ECNL players play at the highest level and make up 70% to 80% of the Division 1 pool, Volume 1 will focus on a few of the top-level/elite players making an impact or soon-to-be impact players.  In this series, the players have made their commitments and will be joining top D1 programs starting next season or in 2027.  Starting with [player_tooltip player_id='82736' first='Sophia' last='Canepa'], the class of 2026 Kansas commit has the size, skill sets, and mental fortitude to play at the highest level of college soccer.   Sophia and Addy - Article #111   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/BayAreaSocScout/status/1984449682081562818 </div></figure>   My most recent evaluation was done two weeks ago as her [program_tooltip program_id='283641' first='De' last='Anza Force'] G07/08 took on a tough Mustang SC club with top-level players and D1 college commits on their side.  Sophia's ability to take charge of the backline and limit her opponents to quality shots on goal are qualities coaches look for in center backs.  Her verbal commands also help outside backs to cover or step into attacking lanes.  I really like her counterattacks, as she can make strong long ball passes into the attacking third or make strong, clean tackles on the defensive side.    My most recent evaluation was done two weeks ago as her [program_tooltip program_id='283641' first='De' last='Anza Force'] G07/08 took on a tough Mustang SC club with top-level players and D1 college commits on their side.  Sophia's ability to take charge of the backline and limit her opponents to quality shots on goal are qualities coaches look for in center backs.  Her verbal commands also help outside backs to cover or step into attacking lanes.  I really like her counterattacks, as she can make strong long ball passes into the attacking third or make strong, clean tackles on the defensive side.    [player_tooltip player_id='82736' first='Sophia' last='Canepa'] - Highlights   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u_xcBCUvtcE </div></figure>   In order to give aspiring D1 players perspectives and tips on navigating through the complex and challenging recruitment process, Sophia was kind enough to answer a few questions on recruitment.  Here are the questions and her responses.   1. What drew you to your college?  Was there anyone in particular who recommended or influenced you to play soccer there?   Sophia - “What attracted me to KU was their outstanding coaching staff and unmatched professionalism. The remarkable support and feedback they offer to athletes fosters an environment where talent can truly flourish. Additionally, being close to the epicenter of sports and women's soccer in Kansas City is a significant advantage. This blend of top-notch coaching and dedicated resources makes KU a great environment to develop my soccer journey.”   2. Once you decided you wanted to play for that particular college, how did you prepare for the recruitment process?  What were some of your backup colleges?   Sophia - “My journey was quite different. KU discovered me during our last showcase in North Carolina, just two weeks before the June 15th recruiting day. They communicated their strong interest through my coach, which left me with a limited timeframe to prepare. During those two weeks, I dedicated myself to learning everything I could about the coaches, the school, and the program with the help of my parents, in anticipation of our call.”   “I remained open to various possibilities and gained interest from several top Power 4 programs and others. Ultimately, what mattered most to me was that the call felt right.”   3. What was one of the most challenging part/s of the recruitment process and how did you overcome it?   Sophia - “One of the toughest challenges during my recruiting process was being out for four months due to a Jones fracture. I feared I would miss valuable opportunities, but I shifted my focus to strengthening my upper body and prioritizing my mental health, relying on my faith and family for support.”   4. What has been your most memorable soccer moment as a ECNL or high school player thus far?   Sophia - “A very memorable moment was when I scored the game-winning goal in the round of 16, which advanced our team to Virginia. It was fun and challenging, and we ended in the top 4.”   5. What advice would you give future collegiate soccer players as tips for increasing their chance of making a Division 1 soccer program?   Sophia - “For future collegiate players, I recommend compiling a list of 35 schools—more is better. Reach out to each one with personalized messages, including your videos and updates. Keep an open mind about all opportunities that arise, and resist the urge to compare your journey to others. It's important to not let the uncontrollable factors make you lose sight of the love you have for the game.”   [player_tooltip player_id='82736' first='Sophia' last='Canepa'] - Makes commitment to Kansas Jayhawks   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/SophiaCanepa08/status/1824151481530089767 </div></figure>   Next up is Addison Halpern, the 2025 Gatorade National Player of the Year and current freshman starter at Virginia.  This part of the series focuses on a current player and her tips on recruitment and earning a spot as a starter.  Besides featuring Addy in 3 previous articles, my scouting highlight thus far was definitely seeing her play live when she and, at that time, the #1 ranked Virginia Cavaliers took on #3 ranked Stanford in Stanford, CA.  It was a tough battle between two of the best teams in the nation going “toe to toe,” with the Cardinal winning it 2-1.  The speed, flow, and player technical abilities are those seen or similar to those of players in the NWSL.  Well, at least for some of the best players on the pitch, that was the case.   Addison Halpern - Gatorade National Player of the Year   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/BayAreaSocScout/status/1936812774119923997 </div></figure>   Addy was locked in for this epic showdown, and her cool and calm composure was one you would normally see in a seasoned veteran.  Yet, this freshman starter showed her poise and competitiveness throughout the match.  In the closing minutes of the second half, Addy almost got the equalizer as her quick one-touch shot skipped off the crossbar.  If it had found its way in, the Virginia crowd sitting in my section would have drowned out the packed soccer stadium with about 30 to 70 percent of Stanford fans calmly cheering for the home team.   Although Virginia didn't get the win, I think lessons were learned and adjustments will be made, as they are now in ACC tournament play and the NCAA tournament is just around the corner. What I got most from seeing this talented Virginia team was a glimpse of the talent level of some of the future stars like freshmen Liv Rademaker, Carrie Helfrich, and Addison Halpern. It will be great to see as they continue to contribute to this top-tier program. I'm definitely waiting for Addy's breakout moment or when she becomes the focal point of this awesome Cavs attack.   Addison Halpern - Powerful header Goal!   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-instagram wp-block-embed-instagram"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://www.instagram.com/p/DQK6qKFDWhL/?hl=en </div></figure>   Here's Addy's questions and responses for recruiting and competing for a spot as a freshman on a Division 1 soccer program.   1. What drew you to your college?  Was there anyone in particular who recommended or influenced you to play soccer there?     Addy - “What really drew me to the University of Virginia was its incredible balance of top-tier academics and a nationally respected soccer program. UVA has such a strong tradition of excellence, and I loved the idea of being part of something that has such a rich history and high standard of success. When I visited, I was struck by the energy and professionalism of the coaching staff, the competitive level of training, and how close the players seemed — it felt like a true family atmosphere.”   2. Who do you look up to on the team as someone who may have helped or mentored you along the way?   Addy - “I was also influenced by people who really believed in the program. My club coach spoke about how UVA develops players both on and off the field, and a few former players I know shared how their time there shaped them not only as athletes but as people. Hearing their experiences made me confident it was the right environment to challenge myself and continue to grow.”   3. What was one of the most challenging parts of playing collegiate soccer, and how did you overcome it?   Addy - “One of the most challenging parts of playing collegiate soccer was adjusting to the speed and physicality of the game. Every practice and match pushes you to be sharper and stronger. I overcame it by staying patient, putting in extra work on and off the field, and leaning on my teammates and coaches for guidance.”   4. What has been your most memorable soccer moment as a collegiate player thus far?   Addy - “My most memorable soccer moment so far was scoring my first goal. It was such an incredible feeling — all the hard work, training, and sacrifices really came together in that moment. Hearing my teammates cheer and celebrating with them made it even more special. Most memorable was looking over at my dad watching and giving him a thumbs up.   He has coached me in so many memorable games in my career, so to have him right there watching was so special to me. It's definitely something I'll never forget.”   “A close second was starting my 1st collegiate game.  The honor of wearing the Uva jersey, standing with my teammates, hearing your name being announced alongside such amazing uva players …. was really special.”   5. What advice would you give future collegiate soccer players as tips for competing for a roster spot or a starting position?   Addy - “I would tell future collegiate players what I have been told by my parents and coaches my entire journey -  stay humble, work hard, and control what you can. Every day is a chance to improve and show consistency — not just in games, but in training, the classroom, and how you carry yourself. Always try to be 1% better every day.”     “Be coachable, support your teammates, and trust that you are exactly where you should be on your journey.”   In closing, I would like to thank Sophia and Addy for taking the time out of their busy schedule to help and inspire aspiring college soccer players. May their tips, insights, and recommendations help future collegiate soccer players find a quality soccer program, while enjoying your soccer journey.

Featuring a Current Division 1 Freshman Starter (Addison Halpern - Virginia) and Soon to be D1 player ( Sophia Canepa Sophia Canepa 5'9" | D Connections Academy | 2026 State #361 Nation CA - Kansas) - Giving perspectives on the recruitment process and tips on making a college team.