How to Be More Scoutable in Soccer Games
I’ve seen many talented players move on to the next level (college and pro) and have noticed similar traits about them.
Before I show you what they are, I’ve also noticed a lot of talented kids get overlooked by scouts.
As clear as I can, I’m going to show you the stuff that gets noticed by scouts. I want to make you more scoutable (I know that’s not a word 🤷🏻♂️).
How to Get Looks by Soccer Scouts
If you want to play at the next level, here are some things I would focus on as a player.
Refine Your Technique
You want your soccer skills to get noticed. In order for it to happen, you need to be above average.
By refining your skills through constant repetition, you’ll look sharper.
Here are some things you can refine that will make a noticeable difference:
- Making clean turns
- Dribbling in tight spaces
- Finishing off the dribble
Remember, walls and cones can be your best friend if you don’t have anyone to train with.
Improving Physical Fitness
Coaches want players who are physically fit and can handle the demands of a 90-minute game with grown men and women.
You don’t need to be Hulk but you should be able to handle yourself. What do I mean by that?
You don’t need to be the biggest but if you have great balance you won’t get knocked off the ball.
You don’t need to be the fastest but it will help if you are quick.
You don’t need to be strongest but if you’re able to leverage your shoulder, you can hang at the next level.
I think you get my point.
At the end of the day, coaches want to see that you are fit enough to handle college soccer. They understand that you are still developing so they consider potential as well.
Improve Game IQ
Scouts want to see smart players. They want to make sure you understand the game well and see different aspects of the play.
No matter what position you are, you should show that you can make quick decisions. What’s better? Making quick decisions under pressure.
To do this, prioritize making plays in training sessions and games. Study the game by watching game film of your team and the pros.
You should also practice making decisions in your everyday life. What t-shirt should I buy? The black or red one? Pick one fast. What should I eat for lunch? Don’t let your friend choose, you decide. All of this will help work the IQ muscle.
Be a Person You’d Like to Hang Out With
For the intangible, scouts and coaches want to make sure they recruit a player who can fit the mold of their team.
Having a positive attitude in games is crucial for catching the eyes of scouts. A bad attitude is game over, and it can make you less scoutable (there’s that word again).
Try not to throw your hands up after the ref blows their whistle. Pick teammates up when they get knocked down. Praise your teammates for a job well done.
Also, go into every game like you are a leader. By being a leader, players typically play with more zest. They understand that they bear the responsibility for their team’s success. Scouts love this.
Learn to React to Mistakes Better
I’ve heard it many times, “We look for what a player does after they make a mistake. Do they hang their head or have they moved on to the next play?”
This is huge and often overlooked.
Coaches want to see how you handle adversity. If you sulk after every mistake, it shows them that you won’t be able to handle many situations.
Have a short-term memory when it comes to soccer. Keep moving on to the next play.
Final Thoughts
If you are considering playing at the next level, the tips above will make you stand out more in games.
With 22 players on the field, it can be difficult to set yourself apart from the rest.
By combining your skills, fitness, game IQ, and attitude, you can maximize your potential.
Scouts often look for a good baseline but consider potential. They know the game and understand that 15-18 year olds still have a lot of time to grow!
I hope the best for you and good luck in your journey!
