DME Academy girls recently had the unique opportunity to hear from one of the most accomplished minds in women’s soccer—Randy Waldrum, Head Women’s Soccer Coach at the University of Pittsburgh. In a dynamic and informative webinar, Coach Waldrum pulled back the curtain on the NCAA Division I recruiting process, shared valuable insights into building elite programs, and spoke passionately about the character and commitment required to compete at the highest levels.

With decades of coaching experience—from leading college powerhouses to coaching on the international stage with Olympic and national teams—Coach Waldrum offered advice that was as inspiring as it was practical. For the student-athletes in attendance, it was a masterclass in understanding what it takes to thrive both on and off the pitch.

The Reality of D1 Recruiting

Coach Waldrum began by demystifying the current college recruiting landscape, particularly in the ultra-competitive Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). He emphasized that talent alone doesn’t earn you a spot on a top-tier team—it’s also about work ethic, attitude, academic readiness, and how you carry yourself as a person.

“The technical and tactical side of the game is important,” he shared, “but we recruit character just as hard. We want people who elevate the program, not just players who can score goals.”

Additionally, Coach Waldrum talked about his style of play and the importance of ID/Camp planning. It’s more than just going D1, its about finding your fit, a saying the DME staff firmly believes in. Regarding ID Camps, Coach Waldrum keeps it small (less than 40/50 players) so that everyone gets the attention they deserve.

Character First: Building a Team Beyond the Field

Throughout the session, Coach Waldrum repeatedly circled back to the idea of character. He spoke about how a player’s attitude toward adversity, their ability to be coached, and their commitment to their team culture can often be the deciding factor in a coach’s decision to offer a scholarship.

Lessons from the Top: From College to the World Stage

Having built successful programs across multiple levels—from collegiate teams like Notre Dame and Pittsburgh to the Nigerian women’s national team—Coach Waldrum offered a rare perspective on how elite programs are developed. He explained how creating a winning culture begins with standards, consistency, and a focus on long-term player development centered around fundamentals and technical acumen.

A Must-Watch for Aspiring Athletes

For any young player dreaming of competing at the D1 level or representing their country one day, this webinar was packed with game-changing information. It wasn’t just about soccer—it was about personal growth, leadership, and becoming the kind of person colleges want to recruit.

Want to understand what it takes to play for a top program? Watch the full webinar and get inspired.