How to Collect and Use Testimonials to Grow Your Soccer Academy

If your soccer academy is doing great work but still struggling to stand out or convert leads, you might be missing a key piece of your marketing puzzle: social proof.

Parents and athletes want to hear from people who’ve already experienced your program. That’s where testimonials come in. They’re powerful trust-builders, and when used correctly, they can help your academy fill more sessions, camps, and seasonal rosters.

At OTO Digital Solutions, we help soccer academies collect, design, and distribute impactful testimonials that drive results. Here's how you can start using them to grow your academy today.

1. Ask at the Right Time

Timing matters. The best moments to request a testimonial include:

• Right after a successful season or camp

• When a parent compliments your coaching in person or via email

• After a player makes visible progress or reaches a milestone

Use a short, pre-written message or form to make it easy. We help academies automate this process with email follow-ups and feedback forms that don’t feel pushy.

2. Make It Easy for Parents and Athletes

Not everyone knows what to say, so guide them. Ask:

• What made you choose our academy?

• What difference have you noticed in your child since joining?

• Would you recommend our program to others?

We can help design branded testimonial forms and surveys that match your voice and branding.

3. Showcase Testimonials Strategically

Don’t let testimonials sit in your inbox, use them! Here’s where to feature them:

• Website: Add quotes to your homepage, program pages, and landing pages

• Social Media: Turn reviews into scroll-stopping graphics or reels

• Email Campaigns: Insert a quote or short video in your onboarding or promotional emails

• Paid Ads: Testimonials in image or video format can increase ad trust and conversion

Need help designing custom testimonial graphics or video reels? We’ve got you.

4. Include Visuals Whenever Possible

Photos and videos take testimonials to the next level. If a parent agrees, post a short phone-recorded video, or include a photo of their child on the field with a quote overlay.

We help academies turn these into branded, professional-looking posts that work across Instagram, Facebook, and your website.

5. Turn Testimonials Into Stories

Instead of just dropping a quote, tell a mini-story:

“When Daniel joined our U10s, he was shy and unsure. Six months later, he’s confident, focused, and starting every game. We’re beyond grateful for this academy.” — Parent of Daniel (Age 10)

Stories are emotional. Emotion drives action.

Final Thought

Parents trust parents. Athletes trust athletes. The more stories and positive feedback you share, the easier it becomes to grow your soccer academy. Start simple and let us help you turn those great reviews into a marketing tool that works around the clock.

Want help collecting and using testimonials effectively?

Book a free strategy call with OTO Digital Solutions and we’ll help you build trust, boost visibility, and grow your academy.