In this episode, we cover…
(0:00) Alex introduces his multi-sport background and growing up in a sports-focused family
(1:00) Talks about playing multiple sports and deciding to focus on soccer around 8th–9th grade
(2:00) Discusses his parents’ support and playing for the love of the game
(4:30) Explains the recruiting process and challenges of finding the right college fit
(6:00) Shares the emotional ups and downs of recruiting and committing later than others
(8:30) Talks about starting his college career at Kentucky and early experiences
(10:00) Explains transferring and finding a better fit at TCU
(15:00) Emphasizes perseverance, self-advocacy, and not compromising goals
(20:00) Talks about coaching and helping young athletes build confidence and skills
(29:30) Shares his main message: mindset, discipline, and consistency separate good from great players
Why the Recruiting Process Is More Than Just Talent
For many young athletes, the goal of playing college soccer feels straightforward—train hard, get recruited, and compete at the next level. But as Alex Fava explains in this episode with Athletes Untapped, the recruiting process is far more complex. It’s not just about talent, but about persistence, patience, and finding the right fit. From emails and showcases to being overlooked and staying consistent, recruiting tests how badly an athlete truly wants the opportunity.
The Advantage of Being a Multi-Sport Athlete
Alex’s journey didn’t begin with early specialization. Growing up, she played soccer, basketball, and tennis, only focusing fully on soccer later in middle school. That multi-sport background helped her develop a wide range of skills while also preventing burnout. She emphasizes that playing multiple sports builds athleticism, improves mental toughness, and allows athletes to stay engaged longer. Instead of rushing into specialization, young athletes benefit from exploring different sports and developing a more complete skill set.
Navigating the Challenges of Recruiting
Alex describes the recruiting process as a “roller coaster,” filled with highs and lows. There are moments of attention from coaches, followed by long periods of silence that can leave athletes questioning themselves. She committed later than many of her peers, showing that there is no single timeline for success. Her experience highlights the importance of staying patient, continuing to work, and not comparing your journey to others. Recruiting is not just about being chosen—it’s about choosing the right environment for your development.
Learning Through Transfers and Growth
Alex’s college career included multiple stops, beginning at Kentucky and later transferring to TCU before finishing elsewhere. Each transition brought new challenges but also new opportunities for growth. Through these experiences, she learned the importance of asking questions, advocating for herself, and finding a program that aligned with her goals. Her journey shows that success is not always linear, and sometimes growth comes from making difficult decisions and embracing change.
Why Mindset Separates Good from Great
One of Alex’s biggest takeaways is that mindset is what separates good players from great ones. While talent can take athletes far early on, discipline, consistency, and attention to detail are what sustain success. Players who show up every day with focus, put in the work, and stay committed to improvement are the ones who stand out over time. These habits not only build confidence but also earn trust from coaches and teammates
Avoiding Burnout in Youth Sports
With the increasing pressure to train year-round, burnout has become a major issue for young athletes. Alex strongly advocates for playing multiple sports as a way to stay fresh both mentally and physically. By stepping away from soccer at times and engaging in other activities, athletes can return with renewed energy and focus. This balance helps sustain long-term passion and prevents the game from feeling like a chore.
Giving Back Through Coaching
Now as a coach, Alex finds fulfillment in helping young athletes develop both skills and confidence. She shares stories of players who started out unsure of themselves but grew into confident, passionate athletes over time. For her, the most rewarding part of coaching is seeing that transformation—when athletes begin to take ownership of their development and truly enjoy the game.
Final Takeaway
Alex Fava’s story shows that success in soccer is not about a perfect path—it’s about persistence, adaptability, and mindset. The recruiting process will be challenging, and setbacks are inevitable, but athletes who stay committed and true to their goals will find the right opportunity. Most importantly, young players should never lose sight of why they started: a genuine love for the game.
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