What makes a winning soccer team?

I'm 17 years old and was wondering if anyone here has some experience to share. Does anyone know where I can go to pay for my own shot at a tryout outside of the US? Honestly, I really want to get out of here because it feels like you can't actually make it in this country unless you've got some crazy connections or know the right people.🤷

Brandon Howard8 said:I'm 17 years old and was wondering if anyone here has some experience to share. Does anyone know where I can go to pay for my own shot at a tryout outside of the US? Honestly, I really want to get out of here because it feels like you can't actually make it in this country unless you've got some crazy connections or know the right people.🤷

You can head over to some small towns in the Midwest or down to some random outskirts in Germany to catch games in the lower leagues if you really want to, but honestly, let me tell you, without a manager in professional soccer, you’re basically just getting screwed.

Believe in yourself

Brandon Howard8 said:I'm 17 years old and was wondering if anyone here has some experience to share. Does anyone know where I can go to pay for my own shot at a tryout outside of the US? Honestly, I really want to get out of here because it feels like you can't actually make it in this country unless you've got some crazy connections or know the right people.🤷

It’s the same old story with these clubs... constant "scouting camps" that feel more like pay-to-play schemes. If you open your wallet, you might actually get a look... if you're lucky...

Five or ten years ago, the US was seeing way more international talent passing trials and making the cut... Now? That window has slammed shut. Ever since the national team's big collapse back in 2004 and the massive overhaul of the American soccer system, everything changed...

I can't speak for Germany, but I know plenty of kids from around here head out for trials in places like Switzerland or Austria to build decent careers... though it definitely won't be cheap...

If you're hunting for managers, go ahead and check out Indeed or whatever site you prefer. But honestly, if you haven't managed to land a manager or someone in a similar role by now—just take my word for it—you’re probably hitting a dead end.

My brother made the cut over in Germany—playing in their 5th division I think—and he’s saying he might even crack the 4th... He's only 18, so there's plenty of time, provided he can find someone to crash with out there.

Look, you could just have someone film your games and put together a highlight reel on a thumb drive. Send those clips over to teams in the G League or even up in the NBA. Who knows? Maybe they'll actually reach out—or maybe they won't.

I'd be more than happy to lend a hand if you're looking to get into playing over in Iceland.

Look, you just gotta dive in and give it a shot! If it doesn't work out, hey, it doesn't work out. It’s not like soccer is the only thing worth doing in this life, right? 🙂

But if you ask me, this is the one that actually matters most.