Matt O'Sullivan is the men's soccer coach for California State Polytechnic University – Pomona. O'Sullivan is the 11th head coach for CPP men's soccer and was named Big West Conference Staff of the year in 2019.
2aDays sat down with coach O'Sullivan to talk about what he looks for in new recruits. In short, Coach O'Sullivan highlights the importance of authenticity, technical skills, and having a passion for soccer!
What is the most important quality you look for in a recruit?
I think that they need to have the same values on the soccer field as they do in their personal lives – being passionate, hardworking, and a man of character. Also what they can do, like technique. If they are passionate they will always try to get better.
What is the best way for a recruit to get on your radar?
Be persistent! I might miss an email here and there, persistence is huge! Come to a camp and come to a game. If you keep trying and show you care you will get on my radar.
Related: 3 Best Club Soccer Leagues to Gain Exposure
What are the top 3 things you look for in an athlete?
- Values align with the team!
- Have to be technical – The way we play the game, you have to be able to execute skills to a specific level.
- Passion – Have passion for the game. If things go wrong and it is difficult you're gonna quit. If you're so passionate you will keep trying until you develop your skills in the sport!
When should an athlete contact you?
An athlete should contact me around sophomore year of high school. Starting the process early can help get you on the radar. When you are trying to reach me, email is best! I am also someone who gives my phone number out to people so they can call and text me while I'm out and about. Leave a voicemail or text message with a name, where you play. Again, be persistent and always follow up.
Related: Soccer Recruiting Advice
What are the Dos and Don'ts of being recruited?
Do:
- Do the recruiting process yourself! Don't have mom and dad do it for you.
- Get help with the process – ask for advice from friends, family, and coaches. But, it needs to be you to make the final decision on where you want to attend.
- Be authentic. Don't be anyone else but yourself. If you're not yourself, you're not gonna make it.
Don't:
- Don't let your parents be in charge of your process.
- Don't think that sending an email out means you're going to be recruited. Show up at camps, follow up, reach out, and be PERSISTENT! If you don't do that, you're not doing enough.
- Don't live out somebody else's dreams. Go to the school that is best for you! The only person that knows what's best for you, is you! What is the best path for one person will not be the best path for you!
What jumps out at you when reviewing a recruits highlight tape?
- Show what makes you a different player. Tapes can become redundant, show your best skills and show them well!
- Show what you're great at!
- If you want to play in college you need to play at an elite level. If you have one elite quality you have a better chance at getting recruited.
Related: Understanding the Soccer ODP
How did being a college athlete help you become a top recruiter for UCI?
Not being at UCLA, What I mean by that is not starting at UCLA because I did not get the cream of the crop. You need to dig for the gems where people aren't looking. No matter where you're at, you need to find the best players. I believed I was the best because I believed in myself as a coach. When recruits come they will learn something new that they won't get from any other program. I believe in the program, the team, and my staff. I feel like UPP is a great option for a lot of people. We are the best because we work hard, remain honest, and authentic!
Have a story idea or know an awesome athlete/coach we should interview? Email us at [email protected]
* Originally published on November 10, 2022, by Katie Lever, Ph. D
