How To Be Good At Soccer For The First Day Of Tryouts

If you're serious about making the soccer team, preparation should start far in advance of tryouts. You'll have a better shot at the team if you're well-conditioned and practiced come tryout time. Start at least six weeks in advance to train and condition your body for the rigorous game of soccer. Come tryout time, you'll be ready to showcase your skills for the coach so you're sure to be noticed as a competitive player.

Step 1

Attend all clinics and tryout meetings ahead of time. Going to soccer clinics offered by the team can give you an idea of what the coach will be looking for during tryouts because those are often the skills he'll focus on during clinics. Clinics, practicing and training on your own can help you hone your skills so they're ready for showcase on the first day of tryouts.

Step 2

Practice basic soccer skills, remembering that it's often better to execute a clean and efficient basic skill than showing off a sloppy trick skill. You should be proficient in passing, shooting and dribbling. Once your basic skills are perfected, you can work on your special talents or stunts.

Step 3

Participate in conditioning exercises in the months leading up to the tryout. Soccer is a full body sport, which takes muscle and endurance conditioning. Weight training, cardiovascular exercise and flexibility drills can help you be a well-rounded player who presents well from the first day of soccer tryouts onward.

Step 4

Eat properly the day before your tryouts, focusing on carbohydrates for energy and endurance. Complex carbs, such as whole wheat pasta and fruits and vegetables, are best and won't make you feel heavy and tired like sweets and soda can. Then, keep yourself hydrated during the tryouts, sipping at least 7 to 10 oz. of water or sports drink for every 10 to 20 minutes of active tryouts.

Step 5

Make yourself visible to the coach on the first day of tryouts by volunteering for drills and demonstrations. This allows the coach to see more of your performance apart from actively trying out with other players, setting you apart from the rest of the hopefuls. Play your best and the coach will likely take notice of your skill and sportsmanship.