How to Get Invited to a Pro Soccer Combine: Tips from Coaches and Scouts
For soccer players aspiring to go pro, getting invited to a pro soccer combine is one of the most critical steps in showcasing your talent to scouts and professional teams. Combines are where dreams take shape, and the difference between being noticed and overlooked can often come down to how well-prepared you are and how effectively you market yourself as a player. This comprehensive guide will provide insider tips from coaches and scouts, offer advice on how to prepare for a combine, and explain how to increase your chances of getting noticed by pro teams.
What is a Pro Soccer Combine?
A pro soccer combine is a tryout event where players showcase their abilities in front of professional scouts, coaches, and representatives from clubs at various levels, including MLS, USL, NWSL, and even international leagues. These events are designed to help teams evaluate potential recruits based on their technical, tactical, and physical abilities.
Why Are Pro Soccer Combines Important?
Exposure to Scouts: Combines bring together scouts and decision-makers, offering you direct access to professional teams.
Performance Opportunity: It’s your chance to showcase your skills in a high-pressure, competitive environment.
Networking: Beyond playing, combines allow you to connect with influential people in the soccer industry.
Tips from Coaches and Scouts on Getting Invited to a Pro Soccer Combine
1. Start with a Solid Soccer Resume
Your soccer resume is your first impression. Scouts and coaches are inundated with requests, so you need to stand out.
Highlight your key achievements, such as championships, MVP awards, or team leadership roles.
Include your college soccer career, semi-professional experience, or international play, if applicable.
Ensure your resume is professional, clear, and free of errors.
2. Create a High-Quality Highlight Reel
A well-edited highlight video is often the key to catching the attention of scouts. Here's how to make it count:
Focus on game footage, not training sessions.
Highlight your strengths (e.g., dribbling, tackling, passing).
Keep it concise (3-5 minutes max).
Include full-game footage upon request to provide context to your highlights.
3. Leverage Your College or Semi-Pro Network
Coaches and scouts value recommendations from trusted sources. If you're currently playing college soccer or semi-professional soccer, ask your coach to advocate for you.
Many scouts rely on referrals from coaches they know.
Maintain strong relationships with your coaching staff—they can be your biggest supporters.
4. Participate in Showcase Events
Before you get invited to a pro combine, you might need to attend regional or college showcase events to prove your skills. These events are often stepping stones for getting noticed.
Look for events affiliated with professional clubs or leagues.
Perform well in these smaller stages to secure your invite to larger combines.
5. Engage with Agents and Agencies
Agents and recruiting agencies often have connections with pro soccer combines and can help you secure an invitation. Be wary of scams, and only work with reputable agencies.
How to Prepare for a Pro Soccer Combine
Once you’ve secured your invitation, preparation is key. Combines are designed to push players to their limits, both physically and mentally.
1. Maximize Your Fitness
Physical performance is a major evaluation point. Prioritize:
Speed and agility training for quick movements.
Endurance training to maintain performance throughout the day.
Strength training to hold your ground in physical battles.
2. Refine Your Technical Skills
Scouts want to see sharp, confident play. Focus on:
First touch and control.
Accurate passing and shooting.
Quick decision-making under pressure.
3. Study the Game
Professional soccer is as much about tactical awareness as it is about skill. Watch games, analyze player movements, and understand team systems.
What to Expect at a Pro Soccer Combine
Knowing what will happen at the combine can help you feel more confident and prepared.
Fitness Testing: Combines often start with fitness evaluations, such as sprints, endurance runs, and agility drills.
Technical Drills: You’ll be asked to showcase individual skills like dribbling, passing, and shooting.
Small-Sided Games: These games allow scouts to see how you perform in tight spaces under pressure.
11v11 Matches: Full-field matches are the ultimate test, showcasing your tactical understanding and ability to compete at a high level.
How to Get Noticed by Pro Teams
Standing out at a combine is no small task. Here’s how to increase your chances of being noticed:
Confidence and Composure: Scouts want players who are calm under pressure and exude confidence.
Consistency: Perform well throughout the event—not just in flashes.
Leadership: Show that you can communicate effectively and inspire teammates.
Adaptability: Be ready to adjust your game based on the coach’s instructions.
From College to Pro: The Role of Semi-Professional Soccer
For many players, semi-professional leagues like USL League Two, NPSL, and UPSL serve as bridges between college soccer and professional opportunities. Playing in these leagues during the summer can:
Build your resume with competitive experience.
Provide access to coaches and scouts from professional teams.
Enhance your technical and tactical skills.
If you’re a college soccer player looking to get noticed, participating in these leagues can significantly boost your chances.
Why Choose Upper 90 College to Help You on Your Pathway?
For the past 15 years, Upper 90 College has assisted hundreds of players from around the world in finding the perfect pathway into the USA soccer system. Our expertise doesn’t stop there—we help our clients navigate:
College soccer recruitment.
Securing scholarships.
Connecting with semi-professional leagues to enhance their playing experience.
Transitioning to professional soccer opportunities.
If you dream of being scouted by pro teams, let us help you craft the perfect strategy.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Soccer Dream
Getting invited to a pro soccer combine is not just about skill—it’s about preparation, strategy, and the right connections. By following these tips and working with experienced guides like Upper 90 College, you can maximize your chances of making your dream a reality.
Ready to start your journey? Contact Upper 90 College today!
