Should You Go Pro or College? For the 1%

As an elite soccer standout (like the top 1% in your region), you’re facing the ultimate crossroads: sign that professional contract or commit to a college program.

It’s a decision that will shape the next decade of your life, and honestly, there’s no universal right answer.

I’m not here to tell you to get an education. Or, screw college, go pro. Like most things life, there are pros and cons.

In my experience, I’ve seen both paths lead to incredible success—and both can present unexpected challenges. Here’s what you need to know to make the decision that’s right for YOUR situation.

The Reality Check: Professional Soccer Odds

Let’s start with the numbers. Making it as a professional soccer player straight from youth soccer is extremely rare.

Even if you do sign that first contract, the average professional career lasts just 8 years, and many players earn modest salaries that require post-career planning.

College soccer recruiting offers a different kind of opportunity. NCAA Division I programs provide world-class coaching, top-tier competition, and crucially—a degree that opens doors beyond soccer.

Development Paths Aren’t One-Size-Fits-All

Here’s something most people won’t tell you: some players actually develop better in college environments. The structured training, academic responsibilities, and gradual increase in competition can help players mature physically, technically, and emotionally.

Professional environments demand immediate results. College gives you four years to grow into your potential while building a foundation for life after soccer. This is huge for most top-level boys and girl. Especially those that are still maturing.

The Gender Factor: Different Timelines

For female players: The NWSL draft system means college is typically the pathway to professional soccer. Top college programs have direct pipelines to NWSL teams, making NCAA eligibility crucial for long-term professional aspirations.

For male players: MLS NEXT Pro and lower divisions offer earlier professional opportunities. However, the competition is fierce, and without college as a backup, the stakes are incredibly high.

Education: Your Ultimate Safety Net

Even players who make it professionally often earn less than you’d expect. Many NWSL players work other jobs during the off-season. Lower-tier MLS players face similar financial realities.

I hope this 👆 gets better someday.

A college degree isn’t just insurance—it’s career preparation. Sports management, business, communications, or other fields can create opportunities within soccer even after playing careers end.

You Don’t Have to Choose Forever

Here’s what I always tell players: college doesn’t end your professional dreams. Many current MLS and NWSL stars played college soccer first. The draft, homegrown contracts, and post-graduation trials remain viable paths to professional soccer.

College soccer actually prepares you better for the professional game. You’ll be more mature, better educated, and have four years of high-level competition under your belt.

Making Your Decision: Look 5-10 Years Ahead

Before choosing, honestly assess:

• Your current skill level relative to professional standards
• Your family’s financial situation
• Your readiness for the business side of professional soccer
• Your interests outside of soccer
• The strength of opportunities in front of you

Remember, the best choice is the one that positions you for success both in soccer and in life. There’s no shame in taking the college route—it’s often the smarter long-term decision.

Get Expert Guidance

This decision is too important to make alone. Connect with your coaches, former players, and even myself (!) who can provide honest assessments of your options and help you navigate the college soccer recruiting process effectively.

Ready to explore your college soccer options? CollegeNovo connects serious players with the right college programs, helping you make informed decisions about your soccer future while keeping your professional dreams alive.