So, your kid has a soccer tryout coming up? Fantastic! This is a big step, whether it’s for a recreational team, a more competitive club, or even that elusive academy spot. As parents, your role in this process is crucial. You’re not just driving them there; you’re their support system, their confidence booster, and their logistics manager. Let’s break down how to ace this soccer tryout, step by step.

Days Before the Soccer Tryout: Laying the Foundation for Success

Think of the days leading up to the soccer tryout as the training camp for the main event. You wouldn’t expect a professional athlete to show up for a championship game without any prior training, right? Same goes for your young soccer player.

Nutrition: Fueling the Future Soccer Star

In the days before the tryout, focus on providing your child with nutritious meals. We’re talking about the kind of fuel that keeps their energy levels steady and their muscles happy.

• Complex Carbohydrates are Key: Think whole-wheat pasta, brown rice, oats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. These provide sustained energy, unlike sugary snacks that lead to a quick spike and then a crash. Imagine their little legs needing to run and dribble for an hour or more – they need long-lasting fuel!
• Lean Protein for Muscle Power: Chicken, fish, beans, lentils, and tofu are excellent sources of lean protein. This helps repair and build muscles, which is essential for all that running, jumping, and kicking they’ll be doing.
• Hydration, Hydration, Hydration: This cannot be stressed enough. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the days leading up to the tryout. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, cramping and decreased performance. Keep a water bottle handy and make sure they’re sipping on it regularly. Avoid sugary drinks like soda and juice, as these can also lead to energy crashes.
• Avoid Last-Minute Dietary Changes: Now is not the time to experiment with new or unusual foods. Stick to what your child is used to and what you know agrees with their stomach. The last thing you want is a stomach ache derailing them.

Rest and Recovery: The Unsung Heroes of Performance

Just like proper nutrition, adequate rest is vital for preparation. A well-rested child will be more focused, have better energy levels, and be less prone to injury.

• Prioritize Sleep: Ensure your child is getting enough sleep in the nights leading up to the tryout. For most elementary and middle school-aged children, this means 9-11 hours of quality sleep per night. Establish a consistent bedtime routine to help them wind down and get the rest they need.
• Light Activity is Okay: Encourage light physical activity in the days before the tryout, such as a leisurely bike ride or casually kicking the ball around in the backyard. Avoid intense training sessions that could lead to fatigue or soreness. We want them feeling fresh and ready to go!
• Listen to Their Body: If your child is feeling tired or has any minor aches or pains, encourage them to rest. Pushing through discomfort could lead to a more significant issue.

Skill Sharpening: A Gentle Reminder, Not a Bootcamp

The days before the tryout are not the time for intense training sessions. However, a gentle reminder of key skills can be beneficial for their confidence.

• Stay Sharp: Encourage some light practice with a soccer ball. This could involve dribbling around cones, practicing basic passes against a wall, or taking a few shots on goal. The goal here is to keep their touch sharp and their feel for the ball natural.
• Review Basic Techniques: Briefly discuss the importance of things like proper passing technique (inside of the foot!), controlling the ball with different parts of their feet, and basic shooting techniques. You don’t need to have a full-blown coaching session, just a friendly reminder.
• Focus on Fun: Keep these practice sessions light and enjoyable. The last thing you want is for your child to feel stressed or pressured in the days leading up to their soccer tryout. A positive mindset is key!

Mental Preparation: Building Confidence from Within

Mental preparation is just as important as physical preparation. Help your child approach the tryout with a positive and confident attitude.

• Positive Reinforcement: Remind them of their strengths and the progress they’ve made. Focus on their effort and enjoyment of the game, rather than solely on the outcome of the tryout.
• Manage Expectations: Have an open and honest conversation about the tryout process. Explain that there might be a lot of players trying out and that making the team is not the only measure of their worth or ability. Emphasize that the experience of trying out and giving their best effort is valuable in itself.
• Visualize Success: Encourage them to visualize themselves performing well at the tryout – making good passes, taking accurate shots, and working hard for the team. Visualization can be a powerful tool for building confidence.
• Address Anxieties: If your child is feeling nervous, acknowledge their feelings and reassure them that it’s normal to feel a little anxious before a tryout. Talk through their concerns and help them focus on what they can control – their effort and attitude.

The Day Of the Soccer Tryout: Game Day Logistics

The big day has arrived! All your tryout preparation is about to pay off. Here’s how to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience on the day itself.

Morning Routine: Setting the Stage for Success

A calm and organized morning can set a positive tone for the entire day.

• Nutritious Breakfast: Start the day with a balanced breakfast that includes complex carbohydrates and some protein. Think oatmeal with fruit, whole-wheat toast with eggs, or yogurt with granola. Avoid sugary cereals or pastries that can lead to an energy crash later on.
• Hydration Check: Make sure your child continues to hydrate by drinking water throughout the morning.
• Review the Plan: Briefly review the schedule for the day and what to expect. This can help alleviate any last-minute anxieties.
• Positive Affirmations: Offer words of encouragement and remind them that you’re proud of them for even putting themselves out there.

What to Wear: Dress for Success and Comfort

Appropriate attire is essential. Your child needs to be able to move freely and comfortably.

• Proper Soccer Cleats: Make sure their cleats fit well and are in good condition. Worn-out cleats can hinder their performance and even lead to injuries. If they have new cleats, ensure they’ve worn them a few times beforehand to break them in and avoid blisters.
• Comfortable Athletic Shorts or Pants: Choose athletic wear that allows for a full range of motion. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive.
• Breathable Jersey or T-Shirt: A lightweight, breathable top will help keep them cool and comfortable during the tryout. Avoid anything with offensive or distracting logos.
• Soccer Socks: Long soccer socks that cover their shin guards are a must for protection and proper gear.
• Shin Guards: These are non-negotiable! Shin guards are crucial for protecting their lower legs from potential impacts. Make sure they fit properly and are securely fastened.

What to Bring: The Essential Gear Checklist

Being prepared with the right equipment will ensure your child is ready for anything thrown their way.

• Water Bottle (or Two!): Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during physical activity. Pack plenty of water.
• Soccer Ball (if requested): Some tryouts may ask players to bring their own ball. Check the tryout information beforehand. Make sure it’s the correct size for their age group and properly inflated.
• Snacks (healthy options): Pack some healthy snacks like fruit, granola bars, or nuts to keep their energy levels up, especially if the tryout is longer. Avoid sugary snacks.
• Towel: A small towel can be useful for wiping off sweat or mud.
• Change of Clothes (optional but recommended): Depending on the weather and field conditions, having a change of clothes can be a lifesaver for the ride home.
• Sunscreen and Hat (if applicable): If the tryout is outdoors on a sunny day, protect their skin with sunscreen and consider a hat for shade.
• Any Required Forms or Paperwork: Double-check that you have completed and brought any necessary registration forms, medical waivers, or other required documents.

Arriving at the Soccer Tryout: Punctuality and Poise

Punctuality is key to making a good first impression.

• Arrive Early: Aim to arrive at least 15-20 minutes before the scheduled start time. This will give your child time to find the registration area, get their bearings, use the restroom, and warm up a bit on their own before the official tryout begins. Rushing in at the last minute can add unnecessary stress.
• Find the Right Location: Make sure you know exactly where the tryout is taking place. Check the address and field number beforehand.
• Check-In Process: If there’s a registration or check-in process, make sure your child (or you, depending on their age) completes it smoothly.
• Let Them Take the Lead: Once you’ve arrived and checked in, allow your child to take the lead. Encourage them to listen to the coaches’ instructions and do their best. Resist the urge to hover or constantly direct them from the sidelines.

During the Soccer Tryout: Letting Their Skills Shine

Your role during the tryout is primarily that of a supportive observer.

• Be a Positive Spectator: Cheer them on with encouraging words, but avoid shouting instructions or criticizing their play. The coaches are there to evaluate, and your sideline coaching can be distracting and counterproductive.
• Trust the Coaches: Remember that the coaches are experienced in evaluating players. Trust their judgment and the tryout process.
• Focus on Effort and Attitude: Encourage your child to focus on giving their best effort, displaying a positive attitude, and being a good teammate. These are qualities that coaches value.
• Avoid Comparing: Refrain from comparing your child’s performance to that of other players. Every child develops at their own pace.
• Stay Calm: Try to remain calm and composed, even if you feel nervous. Your child will pick up on your emotions.

After the Tryout: Reflection and Moving Forward

The tryout is over, but the process isn’t quite finished.

• Post-Tryout Chat: After the tryout, have a calm and supportive conversation with your child. Ask them how they felt it went and what they thought they did well. Focus on their effort and the experience, rather than solely on whether they think they made the team.
• Manage Expectations (Again): Remind them that the selection process can take time and that there are many factors that go into team decisions.
• Celebrate Their Effort: Regardless of the outcome, celebrate their willingness to try out and their effort on the field.
• Respect the Coaches’ Decision: Understand that the coaches have a difficult job to do and respect their final decisions.
• Plan for the Future: If they make the team, congratulations! If they don’t, explore other soccer opportunities and encourage them to continue developing their skills.

To further enhance your understanding of the youth soccer landscape and how to best support your child, check out the article on Youth Soccer POV titled “Finding The Right Youth Soccer Team“. This article provides valuable insights into the various competitive levels and can help you navigate the best path for your child’s soccer journey.

By following these detailed steps you’ll be giving your child the best possible chance to shine and enjoy the experience. Remember, the goal is not just about making the team, but about fostering a love for the game and helping your child grow as a player and as an individual. Now go forth and conquer that soccer tryout! You’ve got this!