Soccer Tryout Secrets: 5 Ways to Get Noticed by Coaches!

 Soccer Tryout Secrets: 5 Ways to Get Noticed by Coaches!

Are soccer tryouts coming up, and you're wondering how to make a lasting impression? Whether you're aiming for a spot on a club team, high school team, or just stepping up your game, these tryouts can be nerve-wracking. But don’t worry—I’m here to help!

I’m Coach James from JR7 SOCCER, and as a former pro player and now a coach, I’ve helped hundreds of players excel at tryouts and achieve their soccer dreams. In this blog post, I’ll share my top five tips to help you shine, impress the coaches, and secure your spot on the team. Let’s get into it!

1. Come Prepared

Preparation is everything when it comes to tryouts. Pack your gear the night before—cleats, shin guards, water, and any other essentials. Arrive early so you can warm up and get comfortable on the field.

Coaches notice players who are organized and ready to go. Showing up prepared sets the tone for how you’ll perform throughout the tryout.

Pro Tip: Research the team you’re trying out for. Understand their style of play and focus on aligning your performance with their expectations.

2. Play Smart and Simple

It’s tempting to try and dazzle the coaches with flashy moves, but simplicity often wins. Coaches are looking for players who can make clean passes, stay in good positions, and make smart decisions on the field.

Trying to overdo it can backfire. Show consistency, dependability, and an ability to make your teammates better.

Personal Insight: I’ve seen incredibly talented players miss their opportunity because they tried to stand out by showing off. Coaches want players they can trust—not just highlight reels.

3. Communicate Like a Leader

Leadership is about more than just wearing the captain’s armband. On the field, being vocal shows confidence, maturity, and a team-first attitude.

Call for the ball, direct your teammates, and encourage others. Even if you’re nervous, act confident—coaches love players who can communicate effectively under pressure.

Pro Tip: If you’re naturally quiet, push yourself to be more vocal during tryouts. Start small—calling out for a pass or directing a teammate—and build from there.

4. Show Hustle and a Positive Attitude

Effort and energy are two things you can control, no matter the situation. Sprint to every ball, stay engaged, and bring positive energy to the field.

If you make a mistake, recover quickly and stay focused. Coaches notice how you respond to challenges, and a player who hustles and keeps their head up will always leave a positive impression.

Motivational Moment: Effort isn’t just about physical hustle; it’s about showing mental toughness. Be the player who bounces back stronger after every mistake.

5. Make a Great Final Impression

First impressions matter, but so do last ones. After the tryout, thank the coaches—it shows respect and professionalism. If there’s a follow-up process, complete it promptly and accurately.

Pro Tip: Consider sending a brief thank-you email after the tryout. It’s a small gesture that can leave a big impact on how you’re remembered.

Quick Recap

Here are the five tips to help you stand out at soccer tryouts:

1. Come Prepared: Pack your gear, arrive early, and know what’s expected.

2. Play Smart and Simple: Focus on consistency and teamwork over flashy moves.

3. Communicate Like a Leader: Be vocal, direct teammates, and encourage others.

4. Show Hustle and a Positive Attitude: Effort and energy always get noticed.

5. Make a Great Final Impression: Thank the coaches and follow up professionally.

Ready to Crush Your Tryouts?

Now that you’ve got these tips in your toolkit, it’s time to put them into action. Remember, tryouts aren’t just about skills—they’re about showing coaches your potential, effort, and attitude. In case you forgot, tryouts started yesterday—if you haven’t been putting in the work, you’re already behind. Time to step up and get after it!

If you’re looking for even more ways to step up your game, download my free guide, The 7 Habits of HighlyEffective Soccer Players. It’s packed with actionable strategies to help you develop elite habits on and off the field.

And don’t forget to check out the JR7 SOCCER Training App for expert guidance, training drills, and tools to keep you ready for any challenge.

Good luck at your tryouts—you’ve got this! And remember, every great player starts with a moment like this. Make yours count.

Question for You: What’s the biggest challenge you face during soccer tryouts? Share in the comments—I’d love to hear your story and help!

 Share this blog post with a teammate who’s preparing for tryouts, and let’s all make this season one to remember!

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Free Resources:
📘 FREE Guide: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Soccer Players
📕 FREE Guide: The Ultimate College Soccer Recruiting Roadmap

Programs & Coaching:
1️⃣ The Training Academy
2️⃣ The College Soccer Accelerator 
3️⃣ The Training App 

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