Soccer tryouts can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for both players and parents. At BWP Football Academy in Albany, NY, we’ve guided hundreds of young athletes through this process, helping them not only perform at their best but also grow into confident, resilient players.
How to Prepare Your Child for Soccer Trials
Whether your child is new to competitive soccer or aiming for the next level, preparation is key. Here are our top tips for helping your child succeed at tryouts.
- Focus on Fundamentals – Keep it simple
Coaches look for players with strong technical skills meaning clean passing, first touch, dribbling control, awareness off the ball and those who play simple. Encourage your child to simply use the basic habits they currently possess and try to enjoy playing. At BWP FA, our philosophy emphasizes technical mastery as the foundation for long-term success.
- Be Fit and Ready
Soccer is a high-energy, demanding sport. Athletes who arrive in good shape can focus on their game instead of battling fatigue. Try to be best prepared to play fast, recover to defend, compete to win the ball and be ready to let your personality be present in all phases of the tryout..
- Prepare Mentally as Well as Physically
Tryouts can be intimidating. Remind your child that mistakes happen and coaches aren’t looking for perfection—they’re looking for attitude, effort, and adaptability. At BWP FA, we value leadership, communication, personal agency and sportsmanship as much as technical ability. Owning your behavior and moving quickly through errors or mistakes allows you to be more ready for the next action.
- Get Comfortable with the Environment
If possible, have your child train or play with the new Club prior, if they offer any open house training sessions or additional programming. Familiarity builds confidence. BWP FA trains at one of the top facilities in the Albany area, CBA Albany, which is one of the top private schools designed and continues to give players the space and atmosphere to thrive.
- Emphasize Effort and Coachability
The players who stand out are not only skilled but also eager to learn. Encourage your child to listen closely, respond positively and try to use the feedback as well as show a strong work ethic. Coaches notice when athletes are hungry to improve.
Why Choose BWP Football Academy?
Since 1996, BWP Football Academy has been a leader in youth soccer development in Albany and Upstate New York, helping players achieve their goals through world-class coaching, a proven methodology, and opportunities to compete at the highest levels. Our academy is proud to be part of the ECNL Regional League, offering a clear pathway for aspiring athletes.
When you prepare your child for tryouts, you’re not just getting them ready for a day—you’re setting the stage for their future in soccer. Try to enjoy these moments the best you can, and share who you are through play. At BWP FA, we’re here to guide that journey.
Enjoy the game we love,
Steve Freeman
Academy Director & Head Coach
BWP Football Academy – Founder
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