Why Highlight Videos Matter (and How to Make Yours Stand Out)

Highlight videos are one of the most important tools in the recruiting process—they’re often the first thing a college coach sees from you. A strong video can be the difference between getting noticed and getting skipped. Coaches don’t have time to watch full games from every athlete, so your highlight reel needs to be short (around 1-3 minutes), clear, and impactful. Show a mix of skills—not just goals, but hustle plays, defense, transitions, and smart decisions. Add your name, grad year, position, school, and club team at the beginning or end. You can also include your IWLCA profile or link the video for easy access by college coaches.

Quick Tips for Standout Highlight Videos

• Start strong: Lead with your best plays to catch a coach’s eye.

• Keep it short: Aim for 1-3 minutes total.

• Label clearly: Use circles or arrows so coaches can spot you easily.

• Show variety: Include scoring, defense, ride, transitions, and IQ plays. (Check bellow for key plays you could look to include in your highlights based on position)

• Use recent film: Prioritize your latest club or high school games.

• Keep it simple: No music, slow-mo, or fancy edits.

• Add contact info: Name, grad year, position, team, and email.

• Link smart: Share your video in emails and on your IWLCA profile. It helps make it easier for coaches to see

What to Look for in Your Film (By Position)

Attackers:

• Smart feeds and assists

• Variety of goals (crease finishes, dodges, off-ball movement)

• Effective rides and caused turnovers

• Quick decision-making and awareness

Midfielders:

• Draw controls and ground ball wins

• Goals in transition and settled offense

• Strong defensive reps (1v1 stops, help slides)

• Full-field hustle and ride effort

Defenders:

• Caused turnovers (checks, interceptions)

• Strong 1v1 defense

• Help defense and sliding

• Clears and transition passing

• Hustle plays (recovering, chase)

Goalies:

• Saves from different shot types (high, low, close range)

• Accurate clears and outlets

• Quick reaction and positioning under pressure