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Love to play soccer? If so, you may want to try out for your school's team. Being on a team will help you work on your game and make friends who are also into soccer. Whether you're trying out for a high school, college, or university, increase your chances of making it by reading this guide on how to join the school soccer team.
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Introduction
- Soccer may not be appreciated as much in the States as it is in most other parts of the world, but it is becoming increasingly popular. What's more, just about every school has at least one team. If you enjoy the game and want to play competitively, joining your school's team may be a good idea. If you're really dedicated, playing for school may even be the first step towards a professional career.
Step 1: Talk to Your Coach
- You should find out everything you can about the team and the tryout process, so that you know what you are getting into. Find out all of these things:
- When are tryouts scheduled?
- Is there a practice week/training camp before tryouts?
- What are the requirements for making the team?
- What will you be asked to do during your tryout?
- How many people will be chosen for the team?
- What will the practice/game schedule look like?
Step 2: Practice
- Tryouts can be grueling, so you want to make sure you are adequately prepared. Practice soccer with your friends, family, or in a local league. The more you play, the better you will become.
- In addition to playing games, you should also hone your abilities by yourself. Practice your footwork by yourself to improve weaknesses. Running will also help get you ready for competition. You will need to be able to run for long distances and extended periods of time. You can use your school track to train, or even go running around your neighborhood.
Step 3: Work on Your Grades
- In order to qualify for the soccer team, you will need to keep your grades at a satisfactory level. This usually means maintaining a "C" average. If you are struggling, talk to your coach and your teachers for advice. You may want to consider tutoring.
- To help ensure academic success, make sure you attend all of your classes. Reserve time at home every day for studying, and set up a quiet, comfortable workspace. Be sure to ask for help when you don't understand your assignments.
Step 4: Try Out
- When the time comes to try out for the team, make sure you are in peak performance condition. Here are some tips:
- Get a good night's sleep
- Eat a nutritious meal about two hours before you try out
- Stretch out before your performance
- Drink plenty of water
- Focus your mental energy towards your performance
- Have confidence in your abilities
- Show off your strengths -- don't be timid
- Give yourself a pep talk before show time -- you can do it!
Conclusion
- If you work hard and practice regularly, you have a good chance of making the team. Of course, some schools are highly competitive, and there is always the possibility that the coach will not recruit you. If this happens, don't dwell on it. If you truly love soccer, keep playing. There is always next season, and even if you never make the team you can still play with friends or other leagues.
