Youth Sports & Activities: Getting on a Middle School Girls Soccer Team
Thinking about trying out for a girls soccer team in middle school? You’re not alone. Many teens wonder if they have the right skills, fitness, or mindset to earn a spot. The good news is that most schools welcome players who show effort and a willingness to learn. Below, we break down what coaches expect and how you can boost your chances, without stressing over fancy moves.
What Coaches Look For
Coaches usually rank three things on their checklist: skill, attitude, and fitness. Skill doesn’t mean you have to be a star scorer; basic ball control, passing, and knowing the rules go a long way. Attitude is even bigger – a player who shows up early, listens, and encourages teammates stands out. Finally, fitness matters because games are fast and last 40 minutes or more. Simple drills like sprinting short distances, jumping rope, or jogging a mile three times a week keep you in shape.
Practical Steps to Boost Your Chances
Start with a quick self‑assessment. Can you dribble for at least 30 seconds without losing the ball? If not, spend ten minutes a day practicing in your driveway or a local park. Next, watch a few games—either live or on YouTube—to see how players move without the ball. Notice where they support teammates and how they recover after a mistake.
Second, get comfortable with the team’s basic formations. Most middle school teams play a 4‑4‑2 or 3‑4‑3 setup. Knowing where each position sits helps you respond faster during a tryout drill. You don’t need a playbook; a quick sketch on a piece of paper is enough.
Third, talk to the coach before the tryout day. Ask what the focus will be—skill stations, small‑sided games, or fitness tests. Showing that you’re proactive signals good attitude and helps calm any nerves you might have.
Fourth, bring the right gear. A pair of well‑fitted cleats, comfortable shin guards, and a water bottle are basics. Forgetting anything looks unprepared, and coaches notice that.
Fifth, work on your mental game. Try a simple breathing exercise: inhale for four counts, hold for two, exhale for four. Do this right before the tryout to lower anxiety and keep your focus sharp.
Lastly, stay consistent after the tryout. If you make the team, keep the habits that got you there—regular practice, listening to feedback, and supporting your teammates. If you don’t make it, use the experience as a guide. Ask the coach what you can improve, and hit the drill board again next season.
Bottom line: getting on a middle school girls soccer team isn’t a mystery. It’s about showing up, working on basic skills, staying fit, and keeping a positive attitude. Follow these steps, and you’ll feel more confident whether you’re on the field or on the sidelines. Good luck, and enjoy the game!
Is it hard to get on a girl's soccer team in middle school?
Getting on a girl's soccer team in middle school can be challenging, but it's not impossible. The level of difficulty often depends on the competition and the specific requirements of the team. Excellence in skills, a great understanding of the game, and physical fitness are typically prerequisites. Also, coaches tend to favor those who display commitment and a good attitude. So, with hard work, dedication, and the right mindset, making the team is definitely achievable.
