How to Select a Competitive Soccer Team

Soccer players who don't find recreational play challenging or who are seeking a higher level of training typically look to play on a competitive soccer team. Joining a competitive soccer team involves more than heading down the road to the nearest soccer club on registration day and signing up. In order to find the right fit, a player needs to be inquisitive, investigate several teams and be willing to dedicate his time even before becoming a member of a team.

Instructions

    • 1

      Locate soccer clubs in your area. Become familiar with where the teams practice and where they play home games to determine if driving time will be an issue, should you be chosen to play on a particular team.

    • 2

      Research soccer team coaches, their experience and their licensing. Ask questions about how the coaching staff develops players and the club's philosophy on the subject. Contact teams that you are interested in and ask to attend practice sessions prior to tryouts. This will give you an idea of the coaching styles, skill levels and dynamics of the considered teams. It will also give the coaches an opportunity to see if you will be a good fit for the team.

    • 3

      Investigate the financial responsibilities as a player on the competitive soccer team. Different clubs charge different fees so it is important to choose a team that you can afford. Typically, club fees pay for uniforms, field maintenance and referees. Additional fees charged by either the club or team pay coaching salaries. The team itself may have its own budget and charge extra fees for training aids, tents and tournaments.

    • 4

      Attend soccer team tryouts. Be prompt and professional, and attend as many tryout sessions as time allows.