How To React After Your Soccer Tryouts

Before the Soccer Tryout

Over here, look at me. Be a show off but know your limits. Special skills or moves? Well, now’s the time to use them. It will help you stand out, as long as you don’t overdo it.

Limited success. Make sure you know your limits so don’t do something that you can’t or have never done before. Imagine falling flat on your face trying to do a bicycle kick in front of dozens of kids?

Yikes. You’ll look like a fool and a show-off while losing your self-confidence.

Follow me. If you are a leader then lead the pack.  Even if you aren’t, encourage and help along fellow players.  Show that you are a good, helpful teammate.

Listen up. Take direction and do what you’re asked.

Against the boards. Be as aggressive as you can and use your body wisely.  No dirty play whatsoever – you’ll go nowhere fast!  Coaches love aggressive players, so it’s a great way to stand out.

Communication is key.  Call for the ball, give teammates advice, etc.  Be loud so the coaches hear you.

Be coachable. When a coach tells you something, listen carefully and show him that you understand. Coaches like to be listened to, and they know that players who listen will improve. Ask questions if you don’t understand something. The coach will see that you’re actually listening to him and respect a question or two – and you’ll get noticed as a standout.

Is that my ball? Don’t be a ball hog.  Pass the ball – this is not a one man show; the coach and other  kids will pick up on this real fast and you’ll make a name for yourself even faster.  Many kids  get caught up in impressing the coach and hang onto the ball way too long. Dribbling skills are great, but you have to show that you can pass.

After the Soccer Tryout

Show your maturity and be profession at all times.  If you make the soccer team / club of your choice you will still have to work hard each practice, game and your own training.

[See here for a top recommended soccer training program.]

Didn’t make the cut? Well, still be mature and thank all of those involved. Want to hear some old school talk? Send a handwritten note! They will remember this for years. You never know with whom you’ll be playing with and for who.

Nothing’s permanent and you still need to hold your head high and take things in stride. The soccer team / club you eventually decide on will be the right choice for you.

Never give up and keep working hard. Soccer, like just about everything in life that is worth anything, requires consistent and methodical work. Touch the ball every single day – as you’re watching TV (OK, maybe when the parents are not home!) as the ball will be your best friend – the more touches the better you will get day-by day.

Oh, and learn, watch, and train hard.

Have a ball!