077: The NAIA Experience with Alex Nichols

While it may not get the recognition that larger associations do, the National Intercollegiate Athletic Association (NAIA) provides college soccer opportunities – and a significant number of scholarships – to over 400 teams across the men’s and women’s games. Alex Nichols, the head coach of the NAIA national champion Central Methodist Eagles, discusses the advantages of the association and, specifically, his powerhouse program in Fayette, Missouri.

In today’s episode – the third installment in a six-part series comparing the various divisions of college soccer in the U.S. – Alex identifies the key differences between the NAIA and the NCAA, including relaxed recruiting guidelines, time commitments on par with NCAA Division 1, and a level of competition that easily rivals Division 2. Alex also echoes a consistent theme across our college episodes: Unlike other sports, a college soccer team’s division is not a great predictor of that team’s talent. Many NAIA programs – including Alex’s Eagles – will hold their own against the NCAA’s Divison 1.

Alex also discusses the qualities he looks for when recruiting goalkeepers, and describes the strengths of his current keepers. He also offers his best advice for young players who are looking to catch the eye of college recruiters.

And if all of that’s not enough, there’s also an Outtakes segment (below). Among other things, Alex discusses the opportunities available to foreign-born players at CMU and in the NAIA. To prove it, his #1 keeper is from Hungary, and his #2 is from New Zealand.

Special thanks to Alex Nichols for joining me!