What Is College Soccer Preseason Like
A complete guide to college soccer preseason: training, recovery, fitness tests, and nutrition
College soccer preseason is one of the most intense and exciting parts of the year. It’s a time when players return to campus, work hard to get in top shape, and start building chemistry with their teammates. For many players, this is their favorite time of the season, when they truly feel like professional athletes since most of the time is dedicated to soccer, recovery, and taking care of their bodies.
In this article, we explain in detail what college soccer preseason is like and what players can expect day-to-day. Read more to discover what preseason is all about.
Prep Before College Soccer Preseason
Players are expected to arrive for preseason already in good shape. To help with this, college coaches usually send out fitness packages before the summer so players can train on their own and arrive ready to go.
It is key to follow these workouts during the summer—falling behind can make it tough to catch up once preseason starts. Since the college soccer season is shorter than in Europe, being fit and prepared from day one can truly make a difference.
When Does College Soccer Preseason Start
College soccer preseason usually starts the first week of August and lasts about 2 to 3 weeks.
However, many teams arrive in July to start working on fitness training, adjust to the weather, and build team chemistry. Because NCAA rules prohibit team practices with coaches before preseason officially begins, many teams that arrive early organize captain-led sessions run by upperclassmen.
Before the official start, the focus is on intense conditioning and strength training to get everyone physically ready for the demanding season ahead.
Fitness Testing
Preseason is characterized by fitness testing… we know, not the best news.
Coaches use these tests to assess each player’s physical readiness after the summer break and ensure they meet the team’s fitness standards. Common tests include the beep test (yo-yo test), timed runs (like the mile or 300-yard shuttle), and strength or agility drills. Survive this, and the rest of preseason will feel easy—kind of.
Two-a-day Training Sessions
College soccer preseason is known for two-a-day training sessions. Players have two intense practices each day, usually one in the morning and one in the afternoon. These sessions are designed to quickly build fitness, sharpen tactics, and get the team game-ready.
Expect a mix of technical drills, conditioning, and scrimmages. Some teams include weight room sessions as well. Two-a-day training sessions usually last a total of 3 to 5 hours per day, split into two sessions.
This demanding schedule normally finishes when classes start, allowing players more time to balance their academics responsibilities with training.
Preseason Scrimmages
Teams are allowed to schedule preseason exhibition matches, often called friendlies or scrimmages, against other universities. Typically, teams can play 1 or 2 of these preseason matches before the regular season starts. These games don’t count toward the official season record but provide an opportunity to test tactics, evaluate players, and build team chemistry in a competitive setting.
Nutrition and Recovery
During preseason, most universities provide food for the players. Sometimes meals are brought directly to the training facilities, other times the team grabs takeout, or they head out to eat together at a restaurant. This setup is great because after all the hard work on the field, players are often too exhausted to think about cooking.
Recovery is a key part of college soccer preseason, helping players perform their best during intense training. Most teams use a mix of recovery techniques, including ice baths, foam rolling, stretching sessions, massage guns, and even visits to the athletic trainer for treatment. Some teams also have access to recovery boots, cryotherapy, or other advanced technology. With so much training packed into a few weeks, recovery isn’t just a bonus—it’s essential.
Video Sessions
During the first few weeks, teams often have regular video sessions to study game footage and understand team strategies. Coaches use these sessions to review past games or training clips and explain tactics, team shape, or individual roles. Video sessions usually happen in a classroom or a team room.
Media Day
Media day is one of the most fun and anticipated parts of college soccer preseason. Players put on their official uniforms for photo and video shoots, including individual portraits, team photos, and action shots. These images are used for the team’s website roster and throughout the season on social media. There’s a great mix of professional pictures and fun, creative content that shows the team’s personality. The university’s media team often films clips for Instagram and TikTok that are published during the season.
Tips to Survive College Soccer Preseason
If you’re looking for tips to excel in the college preseason, check out our article on how to get prepared for soccer season. Former soccer player, Marius Skattum Dah, shares valuable advice on getting ready for preseason and standing out from day one.
Want to learn more about college soccer and how to earn a sports scholarship in the US? Keystone Sports is here to help. With over 15,000 athletes successfully recruited to US universities, our team guides players through every step of their college journey.
Fill out our free evaluation form, and one of our experts will get in touch with you.
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About the author
Lorena Montañés
Lorena Montañés, SEO Specialist at Keystone Sports, pursued her career in the U.S., playing DI soccer at California State University, Fresno. There, she earned degrees in Mass Communication & Journalism and Psychology. She later completed an MBA in Business Analytics while coaching at a Division II university. Now, she aims to empower other student-athletes to achieve their dreams and have a life-changing experience.
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