Ok, I'm a general noob to women's NCAA soccer. Other than knowing who the usually dominant schools are, I am clueless as to the playing styles each school/coach may be known for. Some specific questions: I want to know which schools are known for playing out of the back and utilizing keepers with great feet (as opposed to just putting a female version of Rob Gronkowski in the cage). Teams that play possession and control, finesse, more like the Japanese WNT? Also, which ones are more known for direct and counter attacking? Which ones mainly rely on getting the genetic freaks and just physically steamrolling everyone? I am not interested in debating the merits of these styles (there's enough of that elsewhere), just want a primer on the tactical differences of the top programs. Bernie, MAP, Cali? Espola? Anyone else?
Some coaches take the talent they have and tailor a playing system that utilizes that talent best. Some coaches will have a "style" and recruit players who fit that style. Other coaches have a "system", and take the best, or most athletic players they can get and fit them into that system.
They all find varying degrees of success. Not surprisingly, the schools that get the pick of the litter tend to win more often, overall, regardless of coach or system.
One thing to consider, is how long the coach recruiting your kid has been the coach, and how often does the school get rid of coaches who dont win.
This was one consideration my daughter had when being recruited, as at least two of the pac-12 top coaches she was considering playing for have since been replaced.
It may be a big deal, or it may not, but when a new coach comes in, a new coaching philosophy comes in, and whatever playing style you thought you signed up for goes right out the window, and that may or may not leave one happy with the situation.
The school is more important than the soccer program, imho, and every school has something different to offer.
My kid was fortunate enough to be able to choose, and I think she chose well.
