College Soccer ID Camps: Are They Worth It?
By Ethan Harris, former RSL Academy and Weber State player · Updated 2026-10-22
Short answer
An ID camp is worth it when the school is on your list and the coaching staff already knows who you are. Email the coach before you go and follow up after. Going to random camps without contact rarely leads anywhere.
When an ID camp is worth it
- The school fits you academically, financially and soccer-wise.
- You've already emailed the coach and they've shown interest.
- The camp is run by that school's own staff, not only guest coaches.
Before the camp
- Email the coach: you're attending, your position, and your highlight video.
- Ask what they'd like to see from you.
After the camp
- Email within a few days: thank them, mention something specific from camp and ask for feedback.
- Keep following up with updates through the season.
When to skip it
If you've had no contact with the staff and the school isn't a realistic fit, the money is usually better spent on film or showcase events your target coaches attend.