Soccer academy tryouts are key moments for any player dreaming of developing a professional career. However, many footballers make mistakes that can cost them the opportunity to be selected. Below, we analyze the seven most common mistakes in these trials and how SIA Academy helps its players avoid them.
Table of contents
Lack of proper physical preparation
One of the most frequent mistakes is not being in optimal physical condition at the time of the tryouts. Many players underestimate the physical demands of these tests and arrive without the necessary endurance, speed, and strength to perform at their best level.
How to avoid it:
SIA Academy emphasizes physical preparation before the trials with personalized training programs that include:
- Strength and endurance sessions to enhance on-field performance.
- Specific exercises to improve speed and agility.
- Nutrition and rest plans to optimize recovery and performance.

Lack of tactical and strategic knowledge
Not understanding the basic strategies of the game can make a player appear lost on the field, unsure of where to position themselves or how to react in different situations.
How to avoid it:
At SIA Academy, coaches ensure that players understand the tactical fundamentals of soccer, working on aspects such as:
- Field positioning based on role and formation.
- Movements with and without the ball.
- Game reading and quick decision-making.
Deficiencies in individual technique for the tryouts
Tryouts test each player’s technical ability. If a footballer makes mistakes in passing, shooting, dribbling, or ball control, they can be quickly discarded.
How to avoid it:
SIA Academy constantly works on improving individual technique with personalized exercises, including:
- Control and passing drills under pressure.
- Specific training to improve shooting and finishing.
- Dribbling and ball control exercises.
Poor space awareness
One of the most common mistakes among young players is the lack of spatial awareness on the field. Many tend to crowd around the ball without considering their positioning in relation to the game.
How to avoid it:
SIA Academy teaches players to better understand their positioning on the field through:
- Game simulations that emphasize proper space occupation.
- Video analysis to correct positioning mistakes.
- Training in offensive and defensive tactics according to the player’s role.
Lack of communication on the field
Soccer is a team sport, and effective communication between players is crucial for success. Many academy hopefuls remain silent on the field, leading to confusion and lack of coordination.
How to avoid it:
At SIA Academy, coaches emphasize the importance of communication through exercises that promote:
- Clear instructions between teammates during the game.
- The use of body language to improve team connection.
- The development of leadership on the field.

Not knowing the academy’s expectations
Each soccer academy looks for players with specific characteristics. Failing to research what the academy seeks before the tryout can result in a player not fitting the desired profile.
How to avoid it:
SIA Academy offers specific preparation programs for tryouts, where players learn:
- The skills that are evaluated during the trials.
- What each academy expects from a player based on their position.
- How to showcase their potential in a short amount of time during the tryout.
Poor management of pressure and nerves
Nerves can work against many players during tryouts, affecting their performance and leading to unnecessary mistakes.
How to avoid it:
SIA Academy has sports psychologists who work with players to help them:
- Control stress and anxiety before and during the trial.
- Improve concentration and self-confidence.
- Apply visualization and breathing techniques to stay calm.
Avoiding these mistakes and preparing properly can make a big difference in a soccer academy tryout. At SIA Academy, players receive comprehensive training that covers all these aspects, increasing their chances of being selected and taking the next step in their soccer career.
If you are looking to improve your level and prepare for tryouts, consider training with SIA Academy to maximize your chances of success.