Once you have been selected for a football academy trial, the recruiter will approach your parents to invite you to attend.
The majority of professional trials take place over a 1 until 6 week period, in which the player will attend training and play in matches. During this period the coaches will assess the player on the four main areas of football development. Looking into the technical, tactical, physical and social aspects of your game and personality.
If you are successful during this period the club could either offer you an annual registration or extend your trial for up to 18 weeks.
If you are unsuccessful the club may invite you to join the development center to help bridge the gap from youth football to academy football.
They may also allow you to return to your youth football club where a scout may still watch your games.
However:
The trial process is different for most semi-professional football teams. Players are often invited to train and play in matches being assessed over a shorter period of time by the manager and coaching staff.
