Let’s face it – tryout season can be nerve-wracking. Whether your player is trying out for FC Alliance North for the first time or looking to move up to a higher-level team, knowing what to expect can make all the difference.
We’ve put together this guide on club soccer tryouts to help players and parents navigate the tryout process with confidence and show their best on evaluation day.
What Makes FC Alliance North Different from Other Johnson City Soccer Clubs
Before diving into tryout prep, here’s why so many families choose FC Alliance North:
- We actually train year-round: Many clubs talk about year-round development but don’t deliver. We provide 47-48 weeks of training throughout the year, with just a few short breaks during holidays and tryout periods. Check out our training approach to learn more.
- Less driving, more playing: Through partnerships with VESL and local tournaments like the Appalachian Highlands Spring Cup, we make sure 60-70% of fall games are played right here in the Tri-Cities. That means less time in the car and more time on the field for families from Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol.
- Coaches who know their stuff: Our club is led by Matt Yelton and Chad Stocton, both local guys who’ve coached at high levels and know what it takes to develop great players. They’ve built a team of coaches who care about developing the whole player.
- A real development plan: We don’t just wing it. Every team follows a structured development plan designed for their age and ability level. Our player development programs cover all ages from U8 through U19, with clear progression from one stage to the next.
- The complete package: Beyond regular team training, we offer specialized goalkeeper training, winter indoor league play, and optional third training sessions. We’re committed to giving players everything they need to improve, not just the basics.
What Happens at FC Alliance North Tryouts
Here’s what to expect when you come to tryouts:
Where we hold tryouts:
- Winged Deer Park Turf Fields (277 Champions Lane, Johnson City)
- ETSU Football Stadium
- White Top Creek Park
We divide players by age groups and gender, with sessions typically lasting 60-90 minutes. Younger players (U8-U12) usually go earlier in the evening, while older players (U13-U19) have later time slots.
Pro tip: Try to attend at least two evaluation sessions during club soccer tryouts in Johnson City and Bristol. This gives coaches a better look at your skills and gives you a second chance if you have an off day. Even the best players don’t always show their full potential in just one session!
How to Get Ready for Tryouts: 4-6 Weeks Before
Don’t wait until the night before to start preparing! Here’s what you should focus on in the month or so leading up to tryouts:
Physical Prep
- Build your engine: Gradually increase your running so you can go hard for a full session
- Work on quickness: Mix in some sprint work 2-3 times weekly
- Soccer movements: Practice changing direction quickly, accelerating, and recovering
- Eat and drink right: Start good habits now that will help on tryout day
Skills to Sharpen
- First touch: Can you receive the ball cleanly when someone’s pressuring you?
- Passing: Work on both short passes and longer balls
- Ball control: Juggle regularly to get comfortable with the ball
- Shooting: Practice finishing from different angles
- Defending: Make sure you know proper defensive stance and footwork
Mental Game
- Picture success: Spend time imagining yourself playing well at tryouts
- Positive self-talk: Replace those nervous thoughts with confidence boosters
- Watch the pros: Check out some games to improve your understanding of positioning
- Set realistic goals: Know what you want to achieve at tryouts
Want to get a head start? Join one of our pre-season camps where you can train with our coaches before tryouts even begin.
The Week Before Tryouts
As tryout day gets closer, switch gears a bit:
- Dial back the intensity: Focus on touch and technique rather than exhausting yourself
- Do your homework: Check out our club philosophy to understand what our coaches value
- Check your gear: Make sure cleats fit well, shin guards are comfortable, and you have clothes for any weather
- Get good sleep: Start a consistent sleep routine – being well-rested makes a huge difference
- Fuel up right: Focus on balanced meals with plenty of carbs, proteins, and healthy fats
Coming from Kingsport or Bristol? Plan your route ahead of time and give yourself some extra travel time. Nothing adds to tryout stress like running late!
Tryout Day: Making a Great Impression at Club Soccer Tryouts
The big day is here! Follow these tips to put your best foot forward:
Before Arriving
- Eat well: Have a good meal 2-3 hours before tryouts (this isn’t the day to try a new food!)
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Pack smart: Bring water, proper shoes, and shin guards (we’ll provide the jerseys)
- Be early: Aim to get to the field at least 30 minutes before your session starts
During the Tryout
- First impressions count: Greet our coaches with confidence and show that you’re excited to be there
- Play to your strengths: Focus on things you’re good at, especially in the small-sided games
- Talk on the field: Use simple soccer terms and be vocal with teammates
- Body language matters: Keep your head up even after mistakes
- Be a good teammate: Pass the ball, support others, and show you understand team play
- Keep working: Show consistent effort throughout the session, even when tired
- Listen and learn: Pay attention to instructions and try to apply feedback right away
After Your Session
- Say thanks: A quick “thank you” to coaches shows maturity
- Think about your performance: What went well? What could you improve?
- Recover smart: Do some light stretching and rehydrate
- Prepare for next time: If you’re coming to another session, think about adjustments you can make
Remember, we’re not just looking for the fastest or most skilled player. At FC Alliance North, we want players who work hard, listen well, and show potential to develop over time.
What Our Coaches Are Looking For
Wondering what catches a coach’s eye during tryouts? Here’s an inside look:
Technical Skills
- Can you control the ball under pressure?
- Do you pass accurately with both feet?
- How’s your ball control in tight spaces?
- Can you shoot effectively?
- Do you defend well for your position?
Soccer Smarts
- Do you position yourself well on and off the ball?
- How quickly do you make decisions?
- Can you find and use space on the field?
- Do you understand basic defensive principles?
- How’s your awareness of what’s happening around you?
Physical Qualities
- Do you have appropriate speed and agility for your age?
- Are you strong enough in challenges?
- Can you maintain effort throughout the session?
- How’s your balance and coordination?
- Are you physically confident when challenging for the ball?
Character and Attitude
- Do you show a positive attitude?
- How do you bounce back from mistakes?
- Can you stay focused during the whole session?
- Are you competitive in a healthy way?
- Do you work well with teammates?
Remember, we’re looking at the whole player, not just isolated skills. We’d rather have a player with room to grow who works hard and listens well than someone with great skills but a poor attitude.
Tips from Players Who’ve Been There
Want the real scoop? Here’s advice from FC Alliance North players who’ve successfully navigated tryouts:
- “Just be yourself. When I tried to play like someone else, I made more mistakes. Coaches want to see your real style, not some forced version of what you think they want.” – Current U15 player
- “It’s not about never making mistakes – everyone messes up. What matters is how you respond. When I turned the ball over, I immediately worked to win it back, and my coach noticed that hustle.” – U17 team captain
- “I was super nervous at first, but I made a point to talk to other players before we started. Just simple stuff like ‘nice pass’ or asking names. It helped me relax, and I actually made friends who ended up being my teammates.” – U13 player
- “Don’t overcomplicate things. Simple, clean soccer will get you noticed more than trying fancy moves that don’t work out. I focus on doing the basics really well.” – Recent college commit from FC Alliance North
For Parents: How to Help Your Child Succeed
Parents play a huge role in the club soccer tryout experience. Here’s how you can help your young player shine:
Before Tryouts
- Help them prepare without piling on pressure
- Talk honestly about expectations – what’s realistic?
- Make sure they’re eating well, drinking enough water, and getting good sleep
- Do a little homework on FC Alliance North so you know what we’re about
On Evaluation Day
- Get there early with all equipment ready to go
- Be supportive without coaching from the sideline (this one’s tough, we know!)
- Save the performance analysis until your child is ready to talk about it
- Watch your own body language – kids pick up on your anxiety
After Results Come In
- If they make it, celebrate but keep it in perspective
- If they don’t make it, help them process the disappointment and look for growth opportunities
- Regardless of outcome, focus on the progress they’ve made
- Remember, youth soccer is a marathon, not a sprint – development takes time
The best thing you can do? Be their biggest fan, not their coach or critic. They need your support more than your analysis.
Why Choose FC Alliance North?
With several soccer options in the area, why do so many families choose us? Here are the top reasons:
- We actually train year-round: Our development model isn’t just talk. We provide consistent training throughout the calendar year so players don’t lose progress during long breaks.
- More local games: We play about 60-70% of our games right here in the Tri-Cities. That means less travel headaches and expenses for busy families from Johnson City to Bristol and Kingsport.
- College connections: For older players thinking about playing in college, we’ve got a track record of college placements and connections to help navigate that process.
- Quality coaching across all teams: Our coaching staff follows a unified curriculum so every team gets high-quality training, not just the top teams.
- We focus on keeping kids in the game: Research shows 70% of kids quit organized sports by age 13. We’ve built a positive environment that keeps players engaged and enjoying soccer long-term.
What Happens After Tryouts?
If you make an FC Alliance North team, here’s what to expect next:
- Team placement communication: You’ll usually hear from us within a few days after evaluations
- Registration steps: We’ll guide you through completing online registration and submitting required forms
- Payment options: We offer annual club fees with installment plans to make things more manageable
- Gear ordering: You’ll get information about required uniforms and training gear
- Training schedule: We’ll share when and where practices will begin
- Team meeting: You’ll meet your coach and teammates before the season starts
We try to make the post-tryout process as smooth as possible, with clear communication and support along the way.
Common Questions About Club Soccer Tryouts in Johnson City
“How do I know if my kid is ready for club soccer?”
Look for consistent enthusiasm for the sport, basic skills from rec league play, and interest in getting better. We’re not looking for perfect players – we want kids who love soccer and are eager to learn. If your child gets excited about practice and wants to improve, they’re probably ready for club soccer.
“What ages do you take at FC Alliance North?”
We offer programs for kids from U8 (ages 7-8) up through U19 (ages 18-19). Age groups are based on birth year, not school grade. We design training specifically for each age group, so players can develop appropriately as they grow with us.
“Do you play against other clubs in Kingsport and Bristol?”
Absolutely! We regularly play against other Tri-Cities clubs. Through local leagues and tournaments, we maintain healthy rivalries with nearby teams while also traveling for some competitions against teams from Knoxville, Chattanooga, and neighboring states. Our VESL partnership keeps about 60-70% of fall games local, which parents appreciate.
“What does club soccer actually cost in this area?”
In the Tri-Cities, expect to pay around $1,000-$1,500 per year, depending on age group and level. Our annual fee includes year-round training, goalkeeper training, winter indoor league, and professional coaching.
There are additional costs for uniforms (usually every two years), tournaments, and travel. We offer payment plans and need-based financial aid because we want quality soccer to be accessible to all dedicated players.
“How competitive are the tryouts?”
It varies by age and team level. Older age groups and higher-level teams tend to be more competitive. But we’re committed to developing players at all levels and usually have multiple teams in each age group to accommodate different skill levels.
We encourage everyone interested to come try out – we look at potential for growth, not just current ability.
“What should my player wear to tryouts?”
Keep it simple: comfortable athletic clothes for the weather, soccer cleats, and shin guards. We’ll provide jerseys for everyone at check-in, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own shirt for scrimmages. Skip wearing gear from other clubs during tryouts.
nd bring layers – Johnson City weather can be unpredictable! For gear recommendations, check out our club shop.
Wrapping Up: Your Soccer Journey Starts Here
Tryouts are just the beginning of what could be an amazing soccer journey. At FC Alliance North, we’re not just looking to fill roster spots – we’re looking to develop great players and even better people.
What makes tryouts easier? Preparation, a positive attitude, and understanding what coaches are looking for. Come ready to work hard, be coachable, and show us not just who you are as a player today, but who you could become tomorrow.
Whether you’ve played club soccer for years or this is your first tryout, we’re excited to see you on the field. We’ve built FC Alliance North to be a place where players can grow, challenge themselves, and fall in love with the beautiful game.
Where Our Players Come From
We welcome players from all over! Our club draws from Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, Elizabethton, Jonesborough, Gray, Blountville, and other nearby East Tennessee communities.
We also have players who come from Southwest Virginia communities like Abingdon, Lebanon, Gate City, and surrounding areas. With multiple training locations, we try to make high-quality soccer accessible to the entire region.
Want to learn more? Register for tryouts here, check out our year-round training programs, see our tournament schedule, or read about our recent acceptance into the National Premier League.