How do I impress at a football trial?
From the moment you arrive, smile, be enthusiastic and enjoy yourself, even if you are nervous. You will feel out of your comfort zone, but remember, so is everyone else.
Relax into the trial drills. You will be less likely to showcase your skills if you tense up and appear nervous. Concentrate on what the coach is saying. Never let your attention wander even for a moment. Imagine all the time you are being watched by Pep!
Try and play like you do in your own team at home. Do what you are good at. Even if you are out of your usual position, keep doing the little things well, and make the most out of every situation. Others will be out of position too. It may be that the position you find yourself in is the position a scout is looking to recruit for….
Be brave, and when an opportunity arises, showcase your skills. Demonstrate your commitment and athleticism to stand out from the crowd. Be brave. Win those 50:50 balls. Go strongly into your tackles. If appropriate, show some leadership and take those free kicks, or organise that defensive line.
Remember the importance of communication. Communicate effectively with your team mates even if you don’t know their names, and keep the volume up.
This is your big chance. Don’t drift in and out of the drills or the game. Keep your concentration high all the time.
Maker those recovery runs and remember this is may not be a full 90 minute game. Show how you are committed to the team’s cause. Keep your body language positive even if your team is not winning. Your attitude will be noticed.
These are generalities, of course, but experience has shown us here at UK Football Trials that if you stick to these general principals, you won’t go far wrong. Good luck!