College ID camps are one of the most direct ways for players to get evaluated by college coaches in person. A Pro Path player was recently selected for the Stetson University ID Camp, and we get plenty of questions about what these camps involve. Here is what to expect and how to prepare.
What an ID camp is
An ID (identification) camp is a short event, often one or two days, hosted by a college soccer program. Coaches run training sessions and games to evaluate prospective players. Some camps are run by a single school, while others include coaches from multiple colleges.
What a typical day looks like
- Check-in and warm-up
- Technical sessions: passing, receiving, finishing, position-specific work
- Small-sided games: where coaches watch decision-making and competitiveness
- Full-sided scrimmages
- Talks from coaches about the program, academics, and recruiting
- Sometimes a campus tour
What coaches evaluate
Technical ability
First touch, passing, and comfort on the ball under pressure.
Tactical understanding
Positioning, decision-making, and how a player reads the game.
Physical ability
Speed, strength, and fitness relative to the college level.
Mentality
Effort, coachability, communication, body language, and how players respond to mistakes. Read Coachability: The Trait Scouts Notice.
How to choose the right camp
- Pick schools you would actually attend. Academic and personal fit matter.
- Contact the coach first. Email before the camp with your profile and video so they know to watch for you.
- Be realistic about level. Choose programs where you could compete for playing time.
- Watch the cost. Prioritize camps at schools that have shown interest.
How to prepare
- Train consistently in the weeks before. Sharpen your first touch and finishing.
- Get fit. Camps can be physically demanding, often with multiple sessions per day.
- Prepare your gear: boots for grass and turf, shin guards, water, snacks.
- Sleep well the nights before.
- Research the program: style of play, roster, academics.
At the camp
- Introduce yourself to the coaches with a handshake.
- Communicate loudly and positively on the field.
- Compete in every drill.
- Show your strengths, but play simple and smart.
- Respond well to mistakes. Coaches are watching your reaction.
- Ask a question during Q&A time.
After the camp
Send a short thank-you email to the coaches within a day or two. Mention something specific you learned or enjoyed, and share your upcoming schedule.
How Pro Path helps
Pro Path guides families on which ID camps to attend, helps players prepare, and builds the recruiting profile coaches see before camp. Read our College Soccer Recruiting Timeline, learn about college recruiting with Pro Path, or book an evaluation.
