Whether you’re a young player, or a young sports leader, taking part in a football trial represents an exciting opportunity. But how do you get involved, and most importantly, how do you win? Read on to find out more.
Overview
Football trials are designed for young players to show off their skills on the pitch in front of talent scouts and UEFA coaches. If they impress, then they’ll be singled out for help from a top coach or attendance at a football academy.
Coaches, scouts and football professionals are all looking for the next David Beckham or Wayne Rooney – and that could be you!
Arranging a Football Trial
Some football clubs arrange their own trial days, but the most common way to be discovered is to get scouted. Attending a football trial is the best way for scouts and coaches to spot and train new players with potential. A good professional football trial company will offer assessment, coaching, scout attendance at trials and professional club opportunities. Try UK Football Trials for UK wide open football trials run by UEFA licensed coaches.
What to Expect at a Football Trial
A trial is normally a lot of fun, once you get over your nerves! Working with a coach, you’ll normally take part in a warm up session and drills. You’ll then play a match, and be given group and/or individual feedback on how you performed, what skills you might need to develop, or be signed up for a club academy or pro-club trial!
Getting Noticed
Scouts and clubs look for four separate skills and qualities. Good technical ability, effectiveness and team spirit, athletic ability, and a great attitude will tick all the boxes, so make sure you try and work on these qualities as much as you can.
Technical Ability
This looks at how good you are with control of the ball, including passing, tackling and dribbling skills.
Effectiveness
You’ll be assessed on how you respond to the game, how aware you are of what’s going on around you and your overall contribution to the team.
Attitude
Your character and attitude should include confidence, the ability to communicate well, self control, and commitment to the game.
Athleticism
Your level of fitness and ability to last the course!
If you can shine at all these, then you will be on your way!
What Next?
If you succeed in being noticed and you’re under 17, then being offered a professional trial with a club or attendance at a football academy is the next step. If you’re over 17, and you really stand out, then it’s possible you can be signed straight into a pro club.
Professional Coaching
If you’re not singled out, don’t give up! It doesn’t mean you’ll never be a pro-footballer. Different players hit their stride at different times, and not all footballers have had success all the way! Instead, consider a football training camp for intensive coaching, and practice until you’re perfect.
