Soccer Tryout Tips To Standout in your Next Trial
No matter where you are on your journey, soccer tryouts are an important opportunity for players to showcase their talent, skills, make an impression on coaches, and get scouted. Whether you’re a youth player, college player, or even a semi-pro / pro, there is a high chance you will attend a lot of trials if you’re really trying to get to the next level.
To help you make the most of every opportunity, it’s important to approach tryouts with the right mindset and preparation. Below are some of the most valuable tips that can help you stand out and increase your chances of making the team.
Best Soccer Tryout Tips and Advice
Focus on what You can Control
During soccer tryouts, good coaches and the rest of the coaching staff look for a combination of talent and fundamental skills, like ball control, passing, shooting, dribbling, playing with both feet, awareness, composure, and making smart decisions, as well as having a positive mindset and being a hard worker. One of the most important things to remember for tryouts right away is that there will be politics involved and a lot of them might be unfair in different ways so it is important to focus on what you can control.
This is why one of the best pieces of advice is to prepare properly for the weeks, months, and years leading up to that trial, arriving early, staying positive, and giving your best effort every minute. This applies to any level of the game, from non-league football in England to amateur players in the United States pyramid.
Have Confidence in Your Preparation
Before heading into a tryout, it is very important to believe in the work you’ve put in leading up to the tryout. Your training sessions, games, and recovery off the field, for the weeks, months, and years leading up to that trial affect your performance so it is very important to be prepared and have confidence in your preparation.
Your preparation involves all of your training on and off the field which is made up of:
- Soccer-specific training
- Athletic training
- Injury prevention
- Mental training
- Tactical understanding
- Recovery
Go Over the Same Routine You Go Through Daily
Tryouts can be nerve-wracking, but maintaining your usual pre-game routine can help calm your nerves and keep you focused on what you do best. Stick to the basics and do the same routines you have been doing leading up to that trial.
If you don’t already have daily routines it is very important to have some especially in the morning, nighttime, and during the day that optimize your circadian rhythm and mitochondrial function.
Pack properly for the day
When going on trial it is important to arrive early and make sure you pack everything you will need with the help of a soccer bag with essential such as:
- Soccer Cleats
- Shin guards
- Grip socks
- Training jersey
- Training shorts
- Massage tools
- Snacks
- Hydration
- EMF Protection
- Cell phone
- Money
- Anything else you can think of, especially if you are required to bring items.
Introduce Yourself to the Staff Holding the Tryouts
Once you arrive at the tryout, a friendly introduction can leave a positive impression and show that you’re not only serious about soccer but also about being a team player.
Network and Talk to People
As you wait for the trial to start talk to the other players there to network, share experiences, and to help build relationships that last beyond the tryout. Who knows, maybe someone at that trial might have a connection to a team that you want to play for or you find a training partner who lives near your area.
Lock in, Focus on the Present Moment, and Move on Quickly from Making Mistakes
Once the warm up begins it is time to lock in, focus on the present moment, and believe in your positive mindset. Always give your best effort, even after a mistake because making a mistake is natural, but how you respond is what counts.
Keep working hard, maintain a positive attitude, and show that you can bounce back.
Stay Vocal on the Field
Being a vocal leader shows coaches that you are engaged, confident, and ready to contribute to the team, whether it’s on offense, defense, or supporting your teammates. However, remember that communication is not just about being loud but about what you say.
Use Break Times Wisely and do Your Best to Recover as Best as you Can
Use any water breaks or pauses in the tryout to rehydrate, catch your breath, and reset your focus. Take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves and clear your mind so you’re ready for the next drill or scrimmage.
If you need a quick snack for energy, choose something light and easy to digest. Break times are also a good moment to check in with teammates, listen to any coaching points, and mentally review what you’re doing well and where you can improve.
Summary
Soccer tryouts are critical opportunities for players of all levels to showcase their technical skills, work ethic, and positive mindset to coaches. To succeed at a trial, it’s very important to prepare consistently for the months leading up to that trial, maintain your usual routines, and arrive early with all the gear you need.
During the tryout, focus on staying present, communicating effectively, and bouncing back quickly from mistakes. By combining confidence, preparation, and a good attitude, you can make a strong impression and increase your chances of earning a spot on the team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are all the skills that a soccer coach and the coaching staff look for in the players during a tryout?
Coaches look for a range of skills during soccer tryouts, including talent, technical abilities like controlling the ball cleanly, passing accurately, and making smart decisions on the field. Soccer coaches also value players with high skill levels, vocal leadership, and the ability to adapt to different positions to contribute to the team’s success.
How Can I Stand Out in Soccer Tryouts if I’m Not Playing in My Preferred Position?
If you’re playing in a different position during soccer tryouts, focus on showing versatility and a positive mindset. Stay engaged, work hard, and demonstrate your technical skills, whether it’s with your left foot or moving the ball efficiently. Good coaches will notice your effort, focus, and ability to make an impact in any role, and this can help you stand out even if you’re not in your preferred position.
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.
