If you're a recruit, you may be wondering: what is the difference between a college showcase and an ID camp and why does it matter? During the recruiting process, attending showcases and camps can improve the probability that you will be recognized by coaches, but what exactly is the difference between the two? Briefly, we will highlight what both mean and how they can benefit you in the recruiting process.
What is a Showcase?
A showcase is an event that is held where clubs and teams show up to be evaluated and watched by college coaches who choose to attend. Showcases allow athletes to invite college coaches to come watch them play as they perform for an audience of various recruiters. Multiple coaches can come watch you play in a single game during a showcase, so it is imperative that you come to show out while playing in one.
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What is an ID Camp?
On the other hand, an ID camp is an event that college athletic programs host on their own, where players pay to attend and get the chance to be evaluated by a specific set of coaches and staff. An ID camp exposes players to college coaches as they are introduced to a training program that the school sets up on their own. ID camps are a great way to show specific schools that you are very interested in being a part of their team, although they may be expensive and laborious.
Related: Multi-School vs School-Specific Soccer ID Camps
Which Should I Choose?
That's up to you to decide. But the important thing to remember whether you are choosing to attend a showcase or an ID camp, is that you may not be the only one the coach is watching. In order to stand out, continuously reaching out and inviting a coach to come watch you play will better your chance of receiving more attention from them.
Either way, showcases and ID camps are both great ways to get noticed and build meaningful connections and status with coaches who are recruiting you! Which ones will you choose in your recruiting process?
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* Originally published on July 7, 2022, by Sarah Borer
