Agree with all that playing on a weak high school team doesn’t matter, and in fact in a backward sort of way, it could actually help with recruiting. No doubt being “all everything” on a state championship team is a calling card, but it also is useful to have a few MVPs and all league awards to put on the college resume. An MVP award is quite helpful to get the attention of college coaches, and it is an easier get on a non-dominant high school team. Please note, I am not advocating that recruits should drop the “soccer brotherhood” thing and set personal award goals for the sake of recruiting. All I am suggesting is that playing for a non-dominant high school team can have some recruiting benefits.
Now for the high school vs. academy debate. No doubt many will be throwing tomatoes at my old-fashioned point of view, but I think there is something very special about representing your high school in a sport – playing next to the kids you grew up with. Sure, academy has it hands down over almost all high schools in skill development, but there are other things in life.
@Midwestmomofboys is a treasure trove of D3 financial aid and soccer information. I would add that in my experience film was a critical piece of recruiting, especially for some elite D3 schools not used to traveling far to tournaments to recruit.
One final note. If you are on the D3 college recruiting trail, be clever. Look for a school that “needs” what your S brings to the table soccer wise. Almost surely, you will find a school that matches your academic expectations that “needs” your kid. It may not be the school you expected. In fact, it may exceed your wildest dreams. Keep an open mind, and don’t believe everything your high school guidance counselor tells you.