In every trial I see there is always a totally different set of circumstances. Be it different coaches, different venues, different weather, different attitudes. Whilst I always try and make the best arrangements, the best possible preparation, there is always something different that comes up. What we have to do it try to prepare for all circumstances.
The results are often different, immediate sign, eight week trial, six week trial, one session…. There are lots of qualities different teams can be looking for. As a player you have to focus what is controllable by you and take the positive from every situation. Show your qualities and do everything with a purpose.
What you can do before a trial
First of all you can make sure you are as fit as possible. If you have time work on your stamina and speed. Get your technique nice and tight.
Take care of your diet, be nice and healthy and keep yourself well hydrated.
Keep a positive mindset.
Immerse yourself in the game. Watch plenty of football.
The night before
Pack ready to go. Get your boots and shin pads packed. Make sure your training kit is neat and tidy.
Do you need to have strapping in your bag and pack some snacks in case of a delay or in case you feel like you need something close to the start. Don’t rely on the club to give you something you need even if they have told you they will.
Go to bed early, 10pm at the latest (earlier if you’re a child and aim for 9 hours or more)
On the day
Don’t try anything new, new kit that is unworn, food that you are not used to. Keep it simple.
Certainly it is sensible to avoid dairy and spicy foods.
Keep well hydrated.
Prepare yourself early in the day so you are not rushing around.
Try to relax. Of course this is easier said that done.
At the trial
Arrive confidently. Not rude but assertive and smart in appearance. Introduce yourself and shake hands with everyone.
When you head to the changing room sit in the middle of the room, don’t sit in a corner out of the way. Be part of the team.
Work as hard as you can. Show the coach that it is important to you and show that you are fit and ready.
Play with a purpose.
Of course you need the ball but you have to make good decision on and off the ball.
Have you told the coach what position you play. You want to play to your strengths and show what you are good at. Ive seen/heard a lot of people saying playing in your position is vital BUT the coach may need you to play elsewhere. He may want to see if you can play in a second position. I would actually rely on the fact your coach can see what your strengths and weaknesses are. Depending on your age the importance of your position will also change in value. If you’re a senior player – ok – you need to have a position based on your strengths. But if you are U10, not many clubs sign players to 1 position.
In certain positions there will be key areas the coach wants to see. It depends on the style of play but for example a defender will need to show he is good in 1v1 defending, he is assertive in tackles and can pass and play calmly with the ball. If you’re a striker, you have to score.
You will need to show something special. Not a trick or flick but something real and something that is appropriate to the position you are playing in. It is not enough to say ‘I didn’t make any mistakes’. You will have to realise when it is ok to take a risk but you can’t take them all the time.
Be aggressive. Not over the top but assertive in your tackles.
Communicate well, can you coach the other players, and demand the ball. Keep it all very positive. The last thing you want to show is a negative mentality towards your team mates.
Be positive with the ball, without the ball as well. Make decisive decisions.
Do not listen to the opinion of other people, especially if they are negative towards you, remember you may be playing for their slot in the team!
Be humble and grateful at the end of the session. Shake hands with everyone.
GOOD LUCK!
