Soccer Tryout Tips for Players and Parents

Soccer tryouts can be both exciting and stressful for players and families.

Whether your child is trying out for a recreational team, competitive club, academy program, or school team, preparation can help build confidence and improve performance.

While every club evaluates players differently, most coaches look for a combination of technical ability, effort, attitude, coachability, and teamwork.

The goal is not simply to make a team—it’s to find an environment where players can continue developing and enjoying the game.

Before the Tryout

Preparation begins well before tryout day.

Players should:

  • Attend training sessions regularly
  • Practice basic technical skills
  • Stay physically active
  • Get adequate sleep
  • Eat healthy meals
  • Stay hydrated
  • Arrive with a positive attitude

Confidence often comes from preparation.

What Coaches Look For

Many parents assume coaches only evaluate goals and flashy skills.

In reality, coaches often focus on:

Technical Ability

  • Ball control
  • Passing and receiving
  • Dribbling
  • First touch
  • Shooting

Athleticism

  • Speed
  • Agility
  • Balance
  • Coordination
  • Work rate

Soccer IQ

  • Decision-making
  • Positioning
  • Awareness
  • Movement off the ball

Character

  • Coachability
  • Effort
  • Attitude
  • Sportsmanship
  • Teamwork

A player with a great attitude and strong work ethic often stands out.

What to Bring to Tryouts

Players should arrive prepared with:

  • Soccer cleats
  • Shin guards
  • Soccer ball
  • Water bottle
  • Appropriate athletic clothing
  • Goalkeeper gloves (if applicable)

Arriving early and organized can help reduce stress and allow players to focus on performance.

During the Tryout

Players should:

  • Listen carefully to instructions
  • Communicate with teammates
  • Play confidently
  • Work hard on every play
  • Encourage others
  • Stay positive after mistakes

Every player makes mistakes. Coaches often pay more attention to how players respond than to the mistake itself.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many players hurt their chances by:

  • Complaining
  • Arguing with coaches
  • Showing poor sportsmanship
  • Failing to communicate
  • Playing too cautiously
  • Giving up after mistakes
  • Focusing only on scoring goals

Coaches value players who compete hard and contribute positively to the team environment.

Tips for Goalkeepers

Goalkeepers should focus on:

  • Communication
  • Positioning
  • Handling
  • Footwork
  • Distribution
  • Confidence

Goalkeepers who organize their defense and communicate effectively often make strong impressions.

Tips for Parents

Parents play an important role during tryouts.

Helpful parent behaviors include:

  • Arriving on time
  • Encouraging effort over results
  • Remaining positive
  • Avoiding coaching from the sidelines
  • Supporting the player’s experience

Tryouts can be emotional. Positive support helps players perform at their best.

After the Tryout

Regardless of the outcome:

  • Focus on growth and development
  • Ask for feedback when appropriate
  • Continue training
  • Stay positive
  • Keep enjoying the game

Not making a particular team does not determine a player’s long-term success.

Many successful players faced setbacks throughout their soccer journey.

Questions to Ask After Tryouts

Families may wish to ask:

  • What is the team’s training schedule?
  • What leagues will the team play in?
  • What are the expected costs?
  • What tournaments are planned?
  • What is the coaching philosophy?
  • How is playing time managed?

Understanding expectations helps families make informed decisions.

Soccer Tryout Checklist

Before leaving for tryouts, make sure you have:

☑ Soccer cleats

☑ Shin guards

☑ Soccer ball

☑ Water bottle

☑ Athletic clothing

☑ Positive attitude

☑ Confidence

☑ Willingness to work hard

Remember: Be Yourself

Players often try too hard to impress coaches.

The best approach is usually simple:

  • Play your game
  • Work hard
  • Communicate
  • Compete
  • Support teammates
  • Have fun

Coaches want to see the player they may be working with throughout the season.

    Soccer Vocabulary for Players and Parents

    New to competitive soccer? Review our Soccer Vocabulary for Players and Parents guide to better understand common soccer terms used by coaches and evaluators.

    Explore More Soccer Resources