June Fifteenth
For most people, June 15 may seem like an ordinary summer day. But for female soccer players finishing their sophomore year of high school, it marks the official start of something long anticipated: the moment when college coaches can begin reaching out directly.
This date represents a shift in the recruiting process — but more than that, it holds emotional weight, dreams, and sometimes, unexpected challenges.
June 15 Isn’t Just a Day — It’s a Season
It’s tempting to think of June 15 as a “now or never” moment. But in reality, it marks the beginning of a time period, not the end of one.
Recruiting is a journey, not a 24-hour window. Some players get contacted on the first day. Others may hear from coaches in the following weeks or months. Some athletes peak later in their junior year, or even senior year, and go on to have fantastic collegiate careers.
Think of June 15 as the opening chapter in a longer book — not the final verdict.
A Time of Connection… and Comparison
When one player gets a phone call from a top Division I school, and another gets silence, it’s hard not to compare. Social media doesn’t help either. Posts about “blessed to be contacted by…” can create quiet panic in athletes who haven’t heard anything.
This comparison game can be emotionally draining.
But here’s the truth: your timeline is your own. The recruiting process isn't linear. Coaches recruit based on team needs, positional gaps, and playing style — not Instagram likes. What seems like silence now could be the space needed for a better, more personalized opportunity to unfold later.
When It Doesn’t Go as Hoped: Tools for Navigating Disappointment
Not hearing from coaches right away can hurt. That’s real. So here are a few emotionally intelligent strategies for navigating the disappointment that can come with this period:
1. Name the Feeling
It’s okay to feel frustrated, discouraged, or even embarrassed. Suppressing emotions doesn’t help. Try writing down how you’re feeling or talking to a trusted adult or teammate. Emotional literacy is a skill — identifying your feelings is the first step toward managing them.
2. Focus on What You Can Control
You can’t control a coach’s roster needs, but you can:
Update your highlight video.
Send personalized emails to schools you're interested in.
Continue training with intention.
Focus on your mental game and character development.
These actions put you back in the driver’s seat.
3. Avoid the Comparison Trap
Mute social media if you need to. Everyone’s journey is different — and the most meaningful offers often come after a period of growth. Focus on your path, not someone else’s timeline.
4. Talk to Someone Who’s Been There
Older teammates, coaches, and even college athletes can offer perspective. Many didn’t get a call on June 15 — and still ended up exactly where they were meant to be. Their stories can normalize your experience and remind you that you’re not alone.
5. Reframe the Moment
Not getting calls doesn’t mean you’re not good enough. It might mean:
The right fit is still out there.
You’re developing at your own pace.
You’re meant to lead in a different space.
This isn’t rejection — it’s redirection.
💡 What June 15 Is About
At its core, June 15 is about beginning a new level of communication, not measuring your worth. Coaches are starting to get to know players not just as athletes, but as people. Character, resilience, and attitude matter just as much as ball skills.
So if you do get a call — awesome. Be curious. Ask questions. Learn.
And if you don’t — you’re still in the game. This is just the beginning.
To Every Athlete Waiting...
Your work matters. Your journey matters. Whether your phone lights up or stays quiet, remember: this one day does not define your future. College soccer is not a sprint — it’s a marathon. And you’ve only just hit the starting line.
Stay grounded. Stay kind to yourself. Stay ready.
Because your moment is coming — and when it does, you’ll be stronger, wiser, and more prepared than ever.
And if you need some extra support, reach out to us. We’re here to help.