11 Soccer Tryout Drills (2024 Update)
Trying out for a soccer team can be nerve-wracking—especially if you don’t know what to expect. But here’s the good news: with the right preparation and mindset, you can walk onto that field with confidence and show the coaches exactly what you’re capable of.
Whether you’re going for your school team, a travel squad, or a club roster, soccer tryouts usually follow a familiar structure. Coaches want to see your technical ability, fitness level, game IQ, and how well you communicate and work with others.
These 11 soccer tryout drills are designed to help you sharpen your skills and get noticed during evaluations. Each drill targets a core area that most coaches focus on when selecting players. Let’s break them down one by one.
1. Dribbling Through Cones
What it tests: Ball control, speed, and agility.
Players are asked to dribble a ball through a series of cones as quickly and smoothly as possible without knocking them over.
Tips for success:
- Use both feet and stay low to the ground for better control.
- Focus on keeping the ball close to your feet.
- Push for speed, but don’t sacrifice accuracy.
2. Short Passing Drill
What it tests: Precision, teamwork, and communication.
Set up cones 5–10 yards apart and partner with another player. Practice passing back and forth with both feet, working on clean touches and consistent accuracy.
Tips for success:
- Open your body to receive the pass.
- Make eye contact before passing.
- Call for the ball with confidence.
3. Long Passing and Switching Play
What it tests: Power, technique, and vision.
Coaches will often test your ability to switch the field or deliver accurate long passes under pressure.
Tips for success:
- Use the inside or laces of your foot for distance.
- Don’t just kick hard—focus on aim and trajectory.
- Time your pass when teammates are ready to receive.
4. First Touch Control
What it tests: Your ability to control the ball under pressure.
You’ll be asked to receive passes from different angles and control the ball with your feet, thighs, or chest, depending on how it’s delivered.
Tips for success:
- Cushion the ball instead of letting it bounce away.
- Try to direct your first touch into open space.
- Show composure—even if the pass is tough.
5. 1v1 Attacking and Defending
What it tests: Creativity, tackling, positioning, and grit.
Players will rotate through roles as attacker and defender in a one-on-one setting. Coaches are watching both sides of the play.
Tips for success:
- As an attacker, use quick changes of direction and feints.
- As a defender, stay low, be patient, and don’t dive in.
- Win or lose, show hustle and effort.
6. Shooting on Goal
What it tests: Finishing ability, decision-making, and composure.
Whether it’s shooting from a pass, dribbling into a shot, or hitting volleys, this drill shows how well you can put the ball in the net.
Tips for success:
- Keep your head down and follow through.
- Aim for corners, not straight at the keeper.
- Try different types of shots—laces, chips, and inside-foot.
7. Crossing and Finishing
What it tests: Accuracy, timing, teamwork.
Wingers will deliver crosses from wide areas, while strikers or midfielders make runs into the box to finish.
Tips for success:
- For crossers: lift your head before delivering and aim for a specific zone.
- For finishers: time your run and stay alert for rebounds.
- Communicate clearly and loudly.
8. Small-Sided Games (3v3 or 5v5)
What it tests: Game awareness, vision, teamwork, and creativity.
Small games let coaches see how you move off the ball, create space, support teammates, and adapt quickly in real-time situations.
Tips for success:
- Don’t hide—get involved as much as possible.
- Make smart passes and quick decisions.
- Show off your work ethic, not just your skills.
9. Scrimmage (Full-Sided Game)
What it tests: Overall gameplay, positioning, fitness, and decision-making.
This is the best chance to show what you bring to a real game. Coaches watch everything from your body language to your ability to impact the match.
Tips for success:
- Play your natural position unless asked otherwise.
- Stay vocal and encourage teammates.
- Make simple, effective plays instead of forcing fancy moves.
10. Fitness and Conditioning Drills
What it tests: Stamina, speed, agility, and recovery time.
Expect sprints, beep tests, agility ladders, or shuttle runs. Coaches want to see that you’re in shape and can keep going even when tired.
Tips for success:
- Hydrate before tryouts and pace yourself smartly.
- Show grit—don’t give up, even if you’re tired.
- Use proper running form to conserve energy.
11. Communication and Coachability
What it tests: Leadership, attitude, and willingness to learn.
Even if it’s not a “drill,” how you interact with coaches and teammates during the session is critical. Coaches notice players who lead, listen, and stay positive.
Tips for success:
- Be respectful, focused, and enthusiastic.
- Ask questions if you’re unsure—coaches love curious players.
- Take feedback and apply it right away.
Advanced Tryout Tips to Stand Out
- Show energy from the start: Jog, don’t walk, between drills. Hustle always gets noticed.
- Be vocal: Call for the ball, direct teammates, and communicate constantly.
- Make eye contact: With coaches and players. It shows confidence and engagement.
- Don’t try to be perfect: Make smart, simple plays and don’t dwell on mistakes.
- Smile and stay positive: Coaches love players who bring good vibes to the field.
Table of Contents
FAQs – Soccer Tryout Drills
Q1: How should I prepare the day before a tryout?
A: Eat well, hydrate, and get a full night’s sleep. Light stretching or a short jog the day before helps keep your body loose.
Q2: What should I bring to the tryout?
A: Bring cleats, shin guards, water, an extra shirt, a ball (unless told otherwise), and a small snack for afterward.
Q3: How long do tryouts usually last?
A: Typically 60 to 90 minutes per session, but it varies by age and level. Some clubs hold multi-day evaluations.
Q4: How do I calm nerves before tryouts?
A: Focus on what you can control—your effort, attitude, and preparation. Take deep breaths and remind yourself why you love the game.
Q5: What are coaches really looking for?
A: It’s not just about skills—they want players who hustle, listen, communicate, and show heart. Make sure you tick all those boxes.
Final Thoughts: Be Ready to Shine at Tryouts
Tryouts can be intense, but they’re also an exciting opportunity to show what you’re made of. The key is preparation. These 11 drills cover all the core areas coaches are watching—dribbling, passing, shooting, defending, fitness, and attitude.
The most important thing? Don’t just show that you’re skilled. Show that you’re coachable, focused, and passionate about the game. Be the player who uplifts others, who works hard when no one’s watching, and who never stops trying.
So take a deep breath, lace up those cleats, and go out there ready to give it everything you’ve got.
