D1 Soccer Colleges Rankings: How can I find them?

I'm planning on playing soccer in college and want to know which D1 soccer schools are highly ranked. How can I find rankings of D1 soccer programs? And what factors should I consider besides rankings to know if the school is right for me?

To find rankings of D1 soccer programs, you can refer to resources like the United Soccer Coaches Poll, Soccer America, and Top Drawer Soccer. These outlets release annual rankings of both men's and women's college soccer programs. Keep in mind that rankings can change from year to year, so you should review the latest rankings before making a decision.

While rankings are informative, you should also consider other factors to determine if a school is the right fit for you, such as:

1. Athletic facilities: Visit the campuses to understand their soccer facilities and amenities, including the quality of fields, stadiums, and practice areas.

2. Coaching staff: Research the coaches' history and style, as their expertise and coaching philosophy can significantly contribute to your skill development on and off the field.

3. Academics: Ensure the school offers strong programs in your preferred area of study, as balancing your athletic and academic goals is essential to your overall success.

4. Location and campus life: Consider whether you prefer an urban or rural setting and the type of atmosphere you want on campus. Remember, you'll be spending several years at the school, so choosing a campus where you feel comfortable is critical.

5. Size of the school: Determine whether you'll thrive at a large university with a diverse student body or a smaller college with a tight-knit community.

6. Scholarships and financial aid: Look into athletic scholarships if you're aiming to make the team, but also consider academic scholarships and financial aid opportunities the schools offer.

7. Connections and networking: Explore the school's alumni network so that you have a support system after graduation. Strong connections can help open up career opportunities not only in soccer but also in other fields.

8. Compatibility with the team and current players: Try to attend a camp or any pre-season events, if possible, where you can meet the coach and team members. This will give you a sense of the team dynamics and how well you'd fit into the group.