On September 29th, DME Academy Sarasota hosted an exclusive webinar with Eckerd College Women’s Soccer Assistant Coach and Recruiting Coordinator Jason Navas. The session gave female athletes and their families an inside look at the NCAA recruiting process, straight from a coach actively building a competitive Sunshine State Conference program.

Coach Navas, a New Port Richey native with deep Florida soccer roots, shared his experience from years coaching across collegiate, high school, and elite youth programs. With a USSF B License and a background developing both field players and goalkeepers at nearly every level, his perspective gave players a roadmap for pursuing their dreams of college soccer.

Key Takeaways from the Webinar

Commit to the Process

Recruiting takes time and looks different for everyone. No two players follow the same path, so patience, persistence, and attention to detail are crucial.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

College coaches want to see curiosity. Asking about program culture, academics, and campus life shows you’re serious about finding the right fit.

Build Your College List

Think beyond soccer. Consider school size, location, and student life when deciding where you might thrive as both a student and an athlete.

Beyond Recruiting: Academics, Calls, and Visits

Coach Navas also emphasized that success isn’t just about what happens on the field. Strong academics open more opportunities, professional phone calls with coaches make lasting impressions, and campus visits bring clarity to whether a program truly feels like home.

Empowering the Next Generation

Events like this webinar are designed to empower Sarasota’s female athletes with the tools, confidence, and mindset to navigate the recruiting journey. By hearing directly from a college coach, players left with a clearer picture of what it takes to compete at the next level and how to take actionable steps today to prepare for tomorrow.

Stay tuned for more opportunities to connect with college programs through DME Academy Sarasota.