Should I Reply to Generic ID Camp Emails?

You sent a thoughtful intro email to a college coach. You shared your profile, included your highlight video, expressed genuine interest in their program. Then you get a response—but it’s clearly a mass email inviting you to their ID camp with zero personalization.

Frustrating? Absolutely! But before you delete it or fire off an annoyed reply, let’s talk strategy.

Why Coaches Send Generic Responses

College soccer recruiting is a numbers game for coaches too. Division I programs might track 500+ prospects for just 5-8 roster spots. They’re juggling current players, recruiting, game prep, and yes—filling their ID camps.

When you reach out during their busy season, that generic camp invite might be their default first response. It doesn’t necessarily mean they’re not interested. Sometimes it’s just the easiest way to keep the conversation going while they manage their overwhelming inbox.

Reading Between the Lines

Here’s what most families don’t realize: how you respond to that generic email can actually set you apart. While 90% of players either ignore it or send a one-line “thanks, I’ll try to make it,” you have an opportunity to stay on their radar.

Look for these subtle signs in even the most generic emails:

• Did they mention your position specifically?
• Was it sent within 24-48 hours of your email?
• Does the camp date work with their recruiting timeline?

If yes to any of these, there’s likely some interest there.

Try not to be so quick to judge.

When to Reply (And When to Move On)

Reply if:

• The school remains in your top 10
• You can realistically attend the camp
• The program fits your academic and athletic goals
• You haven’t heard from them before

Skip it if:

• You’ve already attended their camp recently
• The email went to your spam folder (mass email red flag)
• They’re clearly not recruiting your graduation year
• You have better opportunities developing elsewhere

How to Craft a Strategic Response

Your reply should be brief but strategic. Show you’re serious without sounding desperate. Here’s the framework:

1. Thank them for the information
2. Reaffirm your specific interest in their program
3. Provide a brief update on your progress
4. Confirm your plans (attending or not)
5. Keep the door open for future contact

Example Reply That Gets Noticed

Subject: Re: ID Camp Invitation – [Your Name], Class of 2027, Center Mid

Hi Coach [Name],

Thanks for the camp information. I’m definitely interested in attending your March ID camp and have already discussed it with my parents.

Quick update since my last email: I just started my junior season strong with 3 goals and 2 assists in our first two games against ranked opponents. Video highlights coming soon!

I noticed your team’s recent conference win—the possession-based style your midfield plays really aligns with my strengths as a distributing center mid.

I’ll complete the camp registration this week. Would it be possible to tour campus and meet with admissions while I’m there?

Looking forward to competing in front of your staff!

Thanks,
[Your name]

Another Example (If You Can’t Make the Camp)

Hey Coach [Name],

Thank you for the camp information. Unfortunately, my game schedule won’t allow me to attend the ID camp.

However, I’ll be at MLS NEXT Fest in December. I can pass along my schedule when I receive it.

Could you let me know your summer camp dates when they’re finalized? I’ll make sure to block those dates with my club coach. If you don’t see me before, I would love to showcase my skills there.

Thanks again for considering me for your program.

Best regards,
[Your name]

The Follow-Up Game

If you attend their camp, send a thank-you email within 48 hours. If you can’t attend, provide specific alternate dates you could visit campus or attend a different camp.

Remember, recruiting is about building relationships, not just collecting camp invitations. That generic email might not feel personal, but your response can be.

Keep Perspective

Generic ID camp emails are part of the college soccer recruiting process. They’re not rejections—they’re often just the beginning of the conversation. Your response strategy matters more than their initial outreach.

Stay focused on schools that align with your goals, keep improving your game, and document everything in your recruiting timeline.

Ready to organize your recruiting communications and track real coach interest? CollegeNovo’s platform helps you manage responses, set reminders, and identify which programs are genuinely engaged. Start building meaningful coach relationships today.