Division II: A Hidden Gem

When thinking of differences between NCAA divisions, there is often an assumption that D1 soccer teams consist of the highest quality collegiate athletes, and thus, are substantially better programs than D2 soccer. Though D1 soccer receives more attention from fans and media, the above assumption is extremely incorrect.

Many collegiate soccer players are international students, and when they begin considering American universities, they are looking for programs that will welcome them and help them grow as a person and player. D2 programs are a fantastic resource for many athletes, which results in countless international players starting their collegiate careers on D2 teams. As TrackMySoccer said, “D2 soccer still offers a high level of competition and exposure to professional opportunities, making it a great option for talented players who for whatever reason couldn’t (yet) make the D1 level.”

Harri Rowe takes a free kick for Lenoir-Rhyne. Photo Courtesy of Harri Rowe.

“I didn’t have too much knowledge on D1, D2, D3 when I first inquired about getting a scholarship at college in America,” said Harri Rowe, originally from Aberystwyth, Wales, and current outside back for the Lenoir-Rhyne Men’s Soccer team (D2). “I was aware that the D2 program that I was to attend was quite prestigious, always ranked highly, and that we can compete with good D1 teams.”

Another key difference between Division I and Division II soccer is the resources and funding available. Division I programs typically have larger budgets, meaning better facilities and training equipment. Despite less funding, D2 teams still offer numerous resources of equal caliber to D1 programs. One example looks at student-athlete scholarships, and surprisingly, 60% of D2 athletes receive financial aid, in comparison to the 57% of D1 athletes. Lastly, and most importantly, having less resources does not impact a team’s ability to compete and win.

Graphic by NCSA College Recruiting.

“I don’t think there is much difference between the top of D2 and D1,” said Rowe. “But we need media people at our games to showcase victories and the facilities we play at. Some of our facilities are just as good as D1s so the gap is there, but it isn’t massive.”

Fan attendance and national recognition is the most obvious and indisputable difference between D1 and D2 teams. D1 matches consistently have large crowds and are televised nationally. D1 programs, regardless of sport, have always had more media coverage, compared to other divisions. This heightened exposure athletes receive on D1 teams helps explain the high transfer rate in collegiate soccer, with 24.3% of male, D2 players transferring in 2019.

Less recognition, however, does not mean no recognition. The smaller size of D2 schools builds a close-knit community, where players and coaches form strong connections, creating a positive and rewarding environment. And honestly, winning championships at the D2 level is just as satisfying and appreciated, as players are often celebrated within their school and local communities.

Adam Kirkwood playing for Young Harris College. Photo Courtesy of Adam Kirkwood.

“I went to a small school with a really tight knit community around the college because it was a small town as well,” said Adam Kirkwood, born in Stranraer, Scotland, and the previous defender for the Young Harris College Men’s Soccer team (D2). “It was like one big family, everybody cared for our success. Rather than just being another number as an athlete, everyone knew you by name and cared how you were doing personally.”

So if D1 teams are hogging the spotlight, how can D2 programs show they are just as good as other divisions? The answer is simple: social media. According to the Journal of College Admission, “two in five students use social media to decide which school to attend,” including those looking to participate in collegiate athletics. D2 programs can use social media to highlight team accomplishments while also sharing stories of individuals, describing their journeys and showcasing individual accomplishments and contributions, on and off the field. The personal narratives create a stronger connection between fans, prospective athletes and players. Behind-the-scenes content is another great way to showcase what makes a D2 program special, while invalidating many of the above assumptions. A player looking for more information about a program can see what daily life looks like for athletes, the quality of facilities, and the personality of the team.

“From a player’s perspective, I’d rather see what it’s really like,” said Kirkwood. “Not just seeing fancy graphic designs on social media, but also seeing someone on the field, showing what it’s really like day-to-day. When players do takeovers or “Days in the Life,” they’re really good marketing tools for smaller programs, and it’s a way to separate yourself from the competition.”