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⚽ AYSO EXTRA Tryout Preparation & Tips for Success

Preparing for tryouts is about more than just showing up — it’s about showing effort, attitude, and commitment. Here are some helpful tips to help players do their best and stand out in a positive way!

Before Tryouts

• Arrive Early
  
  Give yourself time to check in, get settled, and start warming up.
  
  First impressions matter — being early shows responsibility and eagerness.
  
  
• Rest Well
  
  Get a good night’s sleep before tryouts so you can perform your best.
  
  
• Eat Right
  
  Fuel your body with a balanced meal before tryouts — avoid heavy or sugary foods.
  
  
• Look the Part
  
  Wear cleats, shin guards (with socks covering them), and appropriate athletic gear.
  
  Bring your size 4 soccer ball (labeled with your name and phone number).
  
  Come dressed and prepared like a player who knows the game.
  
  
• Hydrate
  
  Bring plenty of water! Tryouts are usually held when the weather is warm.
  
  
• Warm Up Properly
  
  Stretch and perform dynamic warmups before tryouts.
  
  There are plenty of great examples online if you need ideas.
  
  

• Get Touches on the Ball
  
  In the weeks leading up to tryouts, practice as much as possible:
  
  Dribbling
  
  Passing
  
  Shooting
  
  Trapping and controlling the ball
  
  Play with a parent, sibling, or friend, and check out YouTube for training drills.
  
  
  
  
  During Tryouts: How to be NOTICED
  
  

• Bring a Positive Attitude
  
  Smile, encourage others, and listen to instructions.
  
  Coaches notice players who are respectful and enthusiastic.
  
  
• Show Effort and Determination
  
  Work hard every moment — don’t stop short or give up early.
  
  Coaches often look for players who finish strong, not just the fastest ones.
  
  

• Be Flexible
  
  Coaches value players who are willing to play any position.
  
  While many kids want to be strikers, players who can confidently play multiple positions stand out more.
  
  
• Be honest about your strengths when asked, but stay open to learning new roles.
  
  Defensive Players Get Noticed!
  
  Coaches are often looking for confident defenders and midfielders — not just goal scorers.
  
  Center Midfield is often reserved for the coach’s most dependable, well-rounded players.
  
  
• Communicate and Listen
  
  Be vocal on the field — call for the ball, direct teammates, and encourage others.
  
  Pay close attention to the coaches’ instructions.
  
  
• Show Confidence
  
  Believe in your abilities. Even if you make mistakes, recover quickly and stay focused.
  
  
• Stay Positive
  
  Don’t get discouraged if you don’t play well the first day — many players stand out on day two.
  
  Tryouts can be competitive, and sometimes great players don’t get selected simply due to limited spots.
  
  
• Stay positive, keep improving, and try again next season
  
  Coaches often remember hardworking, positive players and may reach out later if spots open up.
  
  
  
  
  
  🌟 Once You Make the Team
  
  Making the team is just the beginning!
  
  Continue working hard. Your effort and attitude determine how well you play.
  
  Show your coach that you deserve your position and can handle more responsibility.
  
  Every practice and game is another opportunity to improve.
  
  
  
  
  Don’t ask if you’re going to make the team — show the coaches why you should.
  
  Bring your best effort, a great attitude, and a love for the game — that’s what truly gets noticed!