How to Join a Soccer Team

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Ages 5 through 14 are a big time for self-discovery. Children are learning what they like, what they don’t like, and what they might like to do with their free time. Many children choose sports as a way to wind down from the school day and get some exercise. In Bergen County, Essex County and Cedar Grove, NJ soccer is a great way for girls to get outside, develop new skills, and meet friends. But how do you join a soccer team? At NJ Crush Elite Girls Soccer Club, we understand that finding the right organization can feel daunting. If you’re interested in learning more about joining a girls’ soccer team, be sure to check out our guide for landing a spot in an elite league.

Explore Options Based on Age

Athletes hoping to earn a spot on a local girls’ soccer team have lots of options to choose from, many of which are organized according to age. This system allows players to start as young as five but also gives older athletes an opportunity to develop a love of the game. Typically, soccer teams are split into these categories:

Players Younger Than 10

The youngest players often get their start in player pools on the youngest age teams. Once they learn the commitment it takes to play, they can then work their way up the ranks and earn spots on more advanced teams. Many of these soccer teams, at the start, are beginner-oriented and focus on teaching foundational skills and building good sportsmanship.

Players Between 11 and 19

Players between the ages of 11 and 19 have more varied options when it comes to trying out for a team. They may want to choose a girls’ soccer club to continue developing their skills. Some organizations, like NJ Crush Elite Girls Soccer Club, require tryouts and several training sessions to join the team. Another, less direct way to join a soccer team at this age is to attend open tryouts and hope your athlete gets recruited by a scout.

Players Older Than 19

Athletes who have worked up through the teams at NJ Crush Elite Girls Soccer Club still have lots of opportunities to play soccer if they want to continue to do so. They have options to play in college and beyond.  NJC now offers a U23 team that offers college and post college athletes and players an opportunity to continue to train and play in the college “off season” or for players that have graduated college and wish to continue to play.  We recommend researching professional soccer clubs and registering for tryouts. Our exceptional coaching staff is glad to help student athletes explore their options.

Start Young and Work Up the Ranks

The best way to set an athlete up for success in club soccer is to get started young. Children who express a love for the sport early on have more time to train, develop their goals, and work toward excellence. At NJ Crush Elite Girls Soccer Club, we’re excited to provide several girls club soccer teams that allow athletes to work up the ranks. We welcome new players to join each of these groups:

  • Lil’ Crushers—Athletes between the ages of 5 and 8 who are just getting started in the soccer world are encouraged to join our Lil’ Crushers team. This group teaches basic skills and lays the foundation for excellence and good sportsmanship.
  • Player Pool—Player pool teams are designed for ages 7 to 9 and incorporate various skill levels as athletes continue honing their skills.
  • National White—Our National White team is for athletes aged 9 through 18 who show a high skill level in soccer and lots of promise.
  • National—Our National teams encompass ages 9 through 18 and expect a high level of commitment and excellence.
  • Academy—Academy athletes are expected to maintain a high skill level and lots of commitment. These teams are available for ages 9 through 18.
  • ECNL – R— ECNL – R teams are ideal for 13-year-old athletes and require a mid-to-high level of skill.

Get Ready for Commitment

Before putting too much time into learning how to join a soccer team, it’s essential to make sure the athlete is ready for a high level of commitment. At NJ Crush Elite Girls Soccer Club, we expect our players to dedicate lots of time to the sport, including attending all practices and making an effort to train outside of regular practice hours. Young children just starting out in girls’ soccer can expect one or two practices per week, while older players should plan to play at least three days a week. Developing into an elite athlete isn’t easy, but the commitment is worth it in the long run!

Consider Supplemental Training

As you search for soccer teams for yourself or your child, consider the other programs each organization offers. Some teams only offer competitive play, while others are proud to provide additional training programs, leagues, and clubs. Athletes registered on one of our teams may also be eligible for these supplemental training sessions:

  • Goalkeeper training
  • Winter technical training
  • “Pick up” nights
  • Summer camps
  • Winter and Summer Select programs/teams
  • Strength, conditioning, and injury prevention

Make a Splash at Soccer Tryouts

“Tryouts” can be a scary word for players who don’t feel confident in their soccer skills yet. Nevertheless, they’re a massive part of joining a club soccer team. But not to worry, there are plenty of ways prospective players can make sure to ace their tryout! Here are our tips for putting your best foot forward:

  • Dress Properly—Be sure to read all information in the tryout packet, especially regarding dress. Clubs typically expect athletes to come dressed in proper soccer attire (shorts, shin guards, suitable shoes, etc.). Refrain from wearing jewelry, watches, or wristbands. If you have questions about the dress code, feel free to get in touch with us.
  • Come Prepared—Players need to bring more than just a can-do attitude to a tryout. When trying out with NJ Crush Elite Girls Soccer Club, bring a ball, plenty of water, and personal medical supplies (i.e., an inhaler).
  • Attend More Than One Session—If possible, attend more than one tryout session. This allows new players to meet the rest of the team and get used to the coaching style. Make sure to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for each session!
  • Practice Good Sportsmanship—Prospective players should show good sportsmanship at all times, whether that’s during a game or while demonstrating skills. Attitude is a major part of success in sports, and our coaches look for positivity, respect, and perseverance.

Get Started at an Open Registration

We hold open registrations all year round! If you’re ready to get your athlete started in club soccer, we welcome you to attend one of these sessions. Simply choose the program you’re most interested in, make sure the schedule works for your family, and sign up via our online portal. If you have any questions along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to our staff. We’d be glad to help your child join one of our elite teams.