Guide for How to Get More Playing Time in Soccer
Getting more playing time in soccer is one of the most important parts of every player’s development. Whether you’re just starting your soccer journey or competing in high school soccer, academy teams, college, semi-professional, or even the professional level, earning consistent game time builds skills, confidence, and love for the beautiful game.
For many players and parents, who prioritize playing time over simply being on a top team, having opportunities to play games regularly is often the difference between progress and frustration. If you or your player is spending a lot of time sitting on the bench, it can be easy to lose confidence, especially at younger ages when everyone wants equal playing time.
The truth is there are many possible reasons why a coach might not be playing a player such as, lack of fundamental skills needed at that level, tactical fit, attitude, effort in practice, or simply the presence of better players in that position. Sometimes, a coach prioritizes winning and trusts more experienced players, while other times, they may be focusing on developing players for the future, which depends on the age and goals of the team.
Regardless of the reason, there are a lot of steps you can take to become a better player and get more playing time to prove your worth on the soccer field.
Tips to Get more Playing Time and Less Bench Time
Talk to Your Coach – Learn Why You Aren’t Getting More Playing Time
If you’re spending a lot of time on the bench, it’s important to talk to your coach and figure out why. Instead of complaining, ask for constructive feedback on what you need to improve and decide if you want to listen to their advice or not.
Understanding your weaknesses can help you figure out what you need to improve on to stand out more on the field.
Have a High Work Ethic
If you want to play in league games, you need to prove that you deserve to be on the soccer field. The players who train harder, give 100% in every game, and show effort in every drill are the ones who might get a new opportunity from the coach.
With that being said, working hard is something you should already be doing, because every player has to do it, but you should also not be mindlessly working hard. As a footballer it is much more important to work smarter, not necessarily harder, which means doing the right things that are going to directly impact your talent, performance, and recovery.
Take Your Training On and Off the Field More Seriously – Work Smarter
To get more playing time on the field, you need to improve as footballer which involves improving every aspect of life that impacts performance from on the ball training and athletic training to recovery such as sleep, nutrition, hydration, and EMF exposure. Training is not just about working hard because everyone can work hard.
Training is about working smarter, which not every one does, to help you develop as much talent as possible in the fastest time available so that you can reach your goals faster.
Have a Positive Attitude and Be Grateful to Be Part of a Team
A good attitude is one of the most important qualities a coach looks for. Even if you’re sitting on the bench, showing frustration or complaining can hurt your chances of earning more playing time.
Be a team player, support your teammates, and show enthusiasm during training. A coach wants players who bring positive energy to the whole team, not just the ones who play.
Remember, if you’re playing for a great team, sometimes your opportunity will come later in the season. Stay patient and ready.
Make Your Minutes Count
If you’re only getting a few minutes in a game, make them count. Play aggressively, communicate with your teammates, and show that you belong in the team.
If you’re a striker, take smart shots, if you’re a midfielder, control the ball and distribute well, and if you’re a defender, be solid and reliable.The way you perform in limited minutes can determine whether you start the next game or continue being a bench player.
Every minute is an opportunity, seize it.
Improve Team Chemistry
Coaches notice when players work well with the whole team. If you connect well with your teammates, understand their movement, and communicate effectively, you’ll be seen as a valuable team player.
Good players stand out, but great players help others stand out as well and this involves building team chemistry with everyone on the field as well as the staff.
Learn Another Position
If you’re struggling to get into the starting lineup, learning a new position can be a game-changer. Some players may only want to play one role, but versatility makes you more useful to the team.
Maybe your current team has too many strikers but needs a winger or maybe the coach told you that you’d get more playing time as a fullback. Being able to adapt makes you an asset in many teams and increases your chances of getting minutes onto the soccer field.
Find Another Team
If you’ve worked hard, shown a good attitude, have been with that team for a long time, and still aren’t getting any opportunities, it might be time to find a different team.
Some players stay on a top team even if they’re sitting on the bench, but that’s not always the best decision. Playing for a lower level team where you get equal playing time and more opportunities to grow might be better for your player development.
Many players benefit from switching clubs or joining other academy teams that focus on developing young talent. The key is to find the right balance between competition and game time to keep improving.
Summary
To get more playing time in soccer, players must be proactive by improving their skills, maintaining a strong work ethic, and understanding their coach’s expectations. Key strategies include talking to the coach for feedback, training smarter both on and off the field, and maintaining a positive attitude to enhance team chemistry.
Players can also increase their chances by learning new positions, making the most of their game minutes, and, if necessary, seeking opportunities on another team. Ultimately, success comes from dedication, adaptability, and consistently proving value on the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I begin improving my soccer skills right now?
To begin improving your soccer skills right now, check out our post on the best soccer training drills. If you are looking to accelerate your progress, contact us or sign an interest form for our private training program.
How can I learn more about the game?
To learn more about soccer the most important thing is to join a team and play the game as much as possible. If possible, analyze high level games as much as you can and your own games as well by recording them with a soccer camera. Also read soccer books, listen to podcasts and interviews watch soccer documentaries, as well as some movies, tv shows, and anime.
