What a ‘Walk-On’ Spot Actually Means in College Soccer

If you’ve been navigating the college soccer recruiting process, you’ve probably heard the term “walk-on” thrown around. But what does it actually mean, and should you pursue one?

Let’s break down everything you need to know about walk-on opportunities in college soccer.

What Is a Walk-On Player?

A walk-on is a player who joins a college soccer team without receiving an athletic scholarship. Unlike recruited players who coaches actively pursue, walk-ons typically contact coaches themselves or try out during open tryouts.

There are two types of walk-ons:

1. Preferred Walk-Ons: Players coaches want on the team but don’t have scholarship money for. They’re essentially guaranteed a roster spot.
2. True Walk-Ons: Players who earn their spot through tryouts or by proving themselves during practice.

The Reality of Walk-On Opportunities

Here’s something many families don’t realize: walk-on spots are incredibly competitive, especially at Division I schools. Most successful walk-ons were solid club players who could have played at lower divisions with scholarships.

Walk-ons often face an uphill battle. You’re competing against scholarship players who coaches have already invested in. Playing time can be limited, and you’ll need to prove yourself constantly.

When Walk-Ons Make Sense

Consider a walk-on opportunity if you:

• Have your heart set on a specific school for academic reasons
• Want the college experience at a particular institution
• Believe you can eventually earn a scholarship (some walk-ons do)
• Are willing to potentially transfer if things don’t work out (last case scenario)

Making Yourself Walk-On Ready

If you’re serious about walking on, treat it like any other college soccer recruiting effort:

• Create a Strong Highlight Video: Even walk-ons need to showcase their skills. A well-edited video can help coaches see your potential.
• Maintain NCAA Eligibility: Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center and keep your grades up. Walk-ons must meet the same academic standards as scholarship players.
• Attend ID Camps: These showcases can put you on coaches’ radars, even if you don’t earn a scholarship offer initially.

Honestly, take the same approach as if you were going getting recruited to get a scholarship somewhere.

The Financial Reality

Remember, walk-ons pay full tuition unless they receive academic scholarships or financial aid. This is very doable btw. Make sure your family can handle the financial commitment before pursuing this path.

Some walk-ons eventually earn partial scholarships, but this isn’t guaranteed. Have realistic expectations about the financial investment.

Questions to Ask Coaches

Before committing to walk on, ask:

• How many walk-ons typically make the final roster?
• What’s the time commitment during season and off-season?
• Are there opportunities to earn scholarship money in future years?
• What’s the team culture like for non-scholarship players?

Alternative Paths to Consider

Before walking on at a Division I school, consider whether you’d be happier playing regularly at a Division II or III school, or at a junior college where you could develop and potentially transfer.

Sometimes the best path isn’t the most prestigious one—it’s the one where you’ll actually play and develop as a player.

Walking on can work, but it requires realistic expectations, serious commitment, and often a backup plan. Make sure you’re pursuing it for the right reasons!