College Soccer Redshirting: Should You Take a Redshirt Year?

Redshirting is a common but often misunderstood concept in college soccer. Here is everything you need to know.

What is Redshirting?

A redshirt year means you practice with the team but do not compete in games. You retain that year of eligibility, giving you five years to play four seasons of soccer.

Why Athletes Redshirt

Physical development. Some freshmen need a year in a college strength program before competing at the college level.

Injury recovery. If you are injured during preseason, a redshirt preserves your eligibility.

Roster depth. If upperclassmen are ahead of you at your position, a redshirt gives you time to develop without burning a year of eligibility.

Academic transition. A lighter athletic load helps some athletes adjust to college academics.

Is It Your Choice?

Sometimes. Coaches often have a plan for each player. They may suggest a redshirt during recruiting or during preseason. You can also request a redshirt, though the coach has final say.

Pros of Redshirting

• Extra year of development
• You graduate with eligibility remaining
• Less pressure as a freshman
• More time to learn the system
• Can focus more on academics

Cons of Redshirting

• You watch from the sideline while your classmates play
• It can be mentally difficult
• You are a year behind socially with your freshman class
• You may need to stay a 5th year to use all eligibility

The NCAA Redshirt Rule

Current rules allow athletes to compete in up to 4 games and still redshirt. This gives coaches flexibility to use freshmen in limited situations without burning their redshirt.

Questions to Ask Your Coach

• Is there a plan for me to redshirt?
• What development goals do you have for me during the redshirt year?
• Will I be able to practice fully with the team?
• How does this affect my scholarship?

FieldVision AI Insight

FieldVision AI helps you understand each program's approach to redshirting during the recruiting process, so you can make an informed decision before committing.