Can I Make the JV Soccer Team as a Sophomore with No Prior Experience?
Hey everyone!
I’m currently a sophomore in high school and I’m really interested in trying out for the JV soccer team next year, even though I don’t have any soccer experience. Here’s a bit of background:
Our school’s soccer team is competitive, but I’m not entirely sure how intense it is. From what I gather, girls who try out generally don’t get cut since very few players make the reserve team—most of the girls have been playing club soccer for years. Because of this, there are quite a few players on the JV and Varsity teams, but the reserve team often lacks enough players (which even affects games against other schools).
Personally, I’ve never played club soccer or participated in competitive games. Growing up, I was more focused on art and didn’t know much about community sports. However, in 8th grade, I developed a growing interest in sports. When I started high school, I misjudged the competitiveness of the soccer team and thought it would be extremely difficult to make it. At the suggestion of a family member, I tried out for the tennis team instead, believing I stood a better chance. Surprisingly, I made the team while some of my friends were cut, and later found out they were invited to join the reserve soccer team without needing to try out. I’ve regretted not pursuing soccer ever since, but I played tennis despite that.
Now, as a sophomore, I made the tennis team again, and while I enjoy it, I can’t shake the feeling that I’ll regret not giving soccer a try when the opportunity was there.
I’ve decided that I want to spend the summer practicing and continue my training until the soccer tryouts, aiming for the junior JV team. I have a friend who played club soccer who is willing to practice with me, and I’m also looking into joining a recreational club to gain some experience and skills. I’m fully committed to putting in the effort because I find soccer really enjoyable!
So, I’d love to hear your thoughts: do you think I have a realistic shot at making the team? Should I take the risk of stepping away from tennis to pursue soccer? If you have any resources, tips, or advice to support my journey, please share! Thanks!
It sounds like you’re really passionate about soccer, and it’s great to hear that you’re willing to put in the effort to learn and improve! Here are some thoughts and advice that might help you make your decision:
Commitment and Practice: Since you’re planning on practicing all summer and during the school year, that’s a fantastic start! The more you put in, the better you’ll get. Utilize your friend’s experience to learn drills and techniques, and be open to feedback.
Recreational Leagues: Joining a recreational league is a great idea. It will give you more game experience and help you learn the tactical aspects of the game. Even pick-up games can be valuable for improving your skills in a less formal setting.
Soccer Resources: Look for online tutorials and training videos that focus on the basics of soccer, such as dribbling, passing, shooting, and defensive skills. There are many resources available on platforms like YouTube. Websites specifically about soccer drills can also provide structured practice plans.
Fitness and Conditioning: Soccer can be physically demanding, so working on your fitness is essential. Consider running, agility drills, and strength training to improve your endurance and speed.
Understanding the Game: Take the time to learn the rules and strategies of soccer. Watching games, whether live or on TV, will help you understand positioning, teamwork, and the flow of the game.
Making a Choice Between Sports: Think about what you enjoy more and where you see yourself growing. If soccer really excites you and you feel a strong desire to pursue it, it might be worth considering making the switch. On the other hand, if you’re also enjoying tennis and see potential for growth there, it’s okay to keep it as well.
Tryouts: When tryouts come around, give it your all! Understand that making the JV team could be challenging with many players having a lot of experience, but don’t let that discourage you. The coaches will see your effort, improvement, and passion, which can count for a lot.
In the end, the most important thing is to pursue what you love! Follow your passion, and whether that’s soccer, tennis, or both, make sure you enjoy the process. Good luck!