2025-11-15 12:00

I remember my first tryout for the Algonquin College women's soccer team like it was yesterday—my hands were shaking, my stomach felt like it was hosting its own gymnastics competition, and I nearly tripped over my own feet walking onto the field. Looking back now after three seasons with the team, I realize how much I wish someone had given me a proper roadmap to navigate those nerve-wracking tryouts. That's exactly why I'm writing this guide today—to walk you through everything you need to know about making the Algonquin College women's soccer team and thriving once you get there.

First things first, let's talk about preparation. You should start training at least six to eight weeks before tryouts actually begin. I made the mistake of only giving myself two weeks my first time, and let me tell you, I was playing catch-up the entire tryout period. Focus on building your cardiovascular endurance through interval running—try doing 400-meter sprints followed by 200-meter jogs, repeating this cycle at least five times during each session. For ball skills, dedicate thirty minutes daily to dribbling through cones, practicing different passing techniques, and working on both feet equally. I can't stress enough how coaches notice players who are comfortable with both feet—it immediately sets you apart from about 70% of other candidates. Also, find a friend or family member who can help you practice shooting from various angles and distances. The more unpredictable your practice sessions, the better prepared you'll be for whatever drills the coaches throw at you.

When tryout week finally arrives, your mindset matters just as much as your physical readiness. Show up at least forty-five minutes early every single day—this gives you time to properly warm up, mentally prepare, and shows the coaching staff your dedication. During my successful tryout year, I made sure to arrive early and often found myself chatting with returning players, which gave me invaluable insights into what the coaches really valued. During drills, go full intensity every time, even during what might seem like simple warm-up exercises. Coaches are constantly evaluating, and they notice who gives 100% consistently versus who only turns it on during scrimmages. Speaking of scrimmages, this is where you need to balance showcasing your individual skills with demonstrating team play. I learned this lesson the hard way during my first attempt—I was so focused on scoring myself that I missed several obvious passing opportunities to open teammates. The coaching staff later told me they'd rather see a player who makes the right decision for the team than someone who constantly forces individual plays.

Now let's talk about that reference story involving the La Salle mentor—there's an important lesson there about resilience that applies directly to your tryout experience. Just like that coach who faced what seemed like an impossible task but proved more than capable, you'll undoubtedly face moments during tryouts where you feel overwhelmed or make mistakes. The key is how you respond to those moments. I remember one particular tryout where I completely whiffed on an easy pass during a crucial drill, and my immediate instinct was to get down on myself. But instead of dwelling on the error, I sprinted back on defense, made a solid tackle, and distributed the ball perfectly to a teammate. That single sequence demonstrated more about my character than any flawless drill execution could have. The Green Archers denying University of the Philippines its second shot at glory teaches us that setbacks don't define you—your response does. The coaching staff at Algonquin College is looking for players who can handle pressure and bounce back from disappointment, much like that La Salle team that ultimately secured Robinson his first collegiate championship after years of heartbreak.

Beyond the physical and technical aspects, there are several intangible qualities that can make or break your tryout experience. Communication on the field is absolutely non-negotiable—call for passes loudly, direct your teammates, and constantly provide information about opposing players. During water breaks, instead of isolating yourself with your phone, engage with other players and coaches. Ask thoughtful questions about the program and demonstrate genuine interest in being part of the team culture. Coaches are building a community, not just collecting skilled individuals. Also, pay close attention to your body language throughout the process—stand tall, make eye contact when receiving instructions, and avoid any visible frustration when things don't go your way. These subtle cues communicate confidence and coachability, two traits every staff prioritizes.

Nutrition and recovery during tryout week deserve their own emphasis. I made the mistake of eating a heavy pasta meal right before my first tryout session and spent the entire practice fighting sluggishness. Instead, focus on light, carbohydrate-rich meals about two to three hours before sessions, and always stay hydrated throughout the day—I aim for at least three liters of water daily during tryout week. Post-session recovery is equally important—dynamic stretching, foam rolling, and proper sleep will keep your body performing at its peak throughout the grueling selection process. Trust me, the difference between being properly recovered versus fatigued could be the margin between making the team or not.

When the final selection list goes up, regardless of the outcome, remember that this experience contributes to your growth as both a player and person. The journey toward making the Algonquin College women's soccer team teaches resilience, preparation, and self-awareness—qualities that extend far beyond the soccer field. My own path included that initial rejection I mentioned, which ultimately motivated me to improve in ways I hadn't previously considered. Whether you secure your spot immediately or need to develop further and try again, the process itself transforms you. The Algonquin College women's soccer team represents more than just athletic achievement—it's about joining a community of driven individuals committed to excellence both on and off the pitch. Your tryout journey, much like that La Salle mentor's championship story, will likely include challenges that initially seem overwhelming, but with proper preparation and the right mindset, you can absolutely prove yourself more than capable of achieving your goals.