Introduction: Tryouts That Open Doors
Trying out for an academy team can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. It’s a chance to show your skills, challenge yourself, and step into a more competitive soccer environment. If you or your child is getting ready for Rise Football Academy’s team evaluations, you’re probably wondering how to prepare – and what coaches are really looking for.
This post will walk you through the best soccer academy tryouts tips, how to physically and mentally prepare, and what sets Rise’s process apart from traditional tryouts.
To help you get even more familiar with our development model, check out our blog on Summer Soccer Camps: What to Expect, where many players first get comfortable before moving into competitive academy play.
What Are Academy Team Tryouts?
Academy tryouts are evaluation sessions designed to place players on teams that match their skill level and developmental goals. At Rise FC, our academy teams range from U8 to U19, competing in local, regional, and national-level leagues.
Players are assessed not only for their technical skill, but also their attitude, coachability, fitness, and decision-making. It’s not just about who scores the most goals—it’s about who’s ready to learn, grow, and contribute to the team.
What to Expect on Tryout Day
Here’s a look at what typically happens during soccer academy tryouts at Rise FC:
- Warm-up drills and small-sided games to observe basic movement and ball control
- Technical skill stations focused on dribbling, passing, and finishing
- Tactical assessments through game-like scenarios
- Fitness and agility testing depending on age level
- Coach interactions to see how players respond to feedback
Our coaches use a holistic lens to evaluate players, ensuring we create teams that grow together and represent our core values of discipline, respect, and excellence.
Soccer Academy Tryouts Tips: How to Prepare
1. Focus on Fundamentals
Make sure your basic techniques – passing, first touch, shooting, and defending – are solid. Coaches are more impressed by consistent control and smart decisions than flashy tricks.
2. Train Under Match Conditions
Simulate game-day scenarios in your training. Play in small-sided games where you need to make quick decisions, support teammates, and keep intensity high.
3. Show Good Body Language
Eye contact, hustle, and a positive attitude go a long way. Even if you make a mistake, how you respond can tell coaches more than the mistake itself.
4. Ask Questions and Take Feedback
If a coach gives you instructions, listen and apply it. Asking for clarification shows maturity and coachability.
5. Fuel and Rest Properly
Get good sleep the night before, eat a healthy meal, and stay hydrated. Your body performs best when it’s cared for – and it’ll help your confidence too.
6. Be Yourself
Don’t try to be someone you’re not. If you’re a playmaker, play that way. If you’re more of a defender, show your strengths. Let coaches see what you genuinely bring to the field.
What Coaches at Rise Are Looking For
Our staff doesn’t just look at skills – they assess the whole player:
- Work ethic: Are you putting in effort from start to finish?
- Team play: Are you supporting teammates or trying to do everything solo?
- Decision-making: Can you recognize opportunities in-game?
- Coachability: How do you respond to instruction or correction?
- Consistency: Are you dependable across drills and games?
Skill matters, but attitude and coachability are often what separates one player from the next. We’re not just building teams—we’re building leaders.
How to Stay Calm During Tryouts
Tryouts are naturally a little stressful, especially for younger players. Here’s how to stay grounded:
- Visualize success: Picture yourself playing with confidence
- Breathe: Use deep breaths before and during breaks
- Stay present: Focus on the current drill or moment, not what’s next
- Forget the outcome: Treat it like any other game or training session
- Support others: Being a good teammate helps everyone relax – including you
Confidence grows with preparation and repetition. And remember – your value as a person isn’t defined by the outcome of a tryout.
After Tryouts: What Comes Next?
Once evaluations are complete, players will be contacted about placements. Some players may be offered spots on academy teams immediately; others may be recommended for development programs like Rising Stars or invited to future evaluations.
Regardless of placement, every player receives encouragement and suggestions for next steps in their development.
For those looking to sharpen skills even further, we also offer:
- Private Training
- Position-specific clinics (GK, defenders, midfielders)
- Year-round Rising Stars programming for U6–U8
Final Thoughts on Soccer Academy Tryouts
Soccer academy tryouts are about more than showcasing your skills – they’re a chance to step into your potential. With preparation, a positive mindset, and a focus on being your best self, you’ll walk onto the field with confidence.
At Rise Football Academy, we’re not just selecting players – we’re investing in their growth. So bring your energy, your love for the game, and your willingness to learn.
You’ve got this. And we’ve got your back.
