Are you a talented soccer player? Do you stand out in the sport from the other students at your school? Do you dream of becoming the next Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo? If so, you have likely had strong thoughts about becoming a professional soccer player.
Trying to turn this dream into a reality, however, is far from easy. Many people from across the world also have hopes of making it big in the soccer world. This means the competition is fierce. It also means you have to prepare correctly if you want to turn your soccer skills into a career.
The following guide will list five steps to take to become a professional soccer player to help with the latter.
1. Sacrifices are needed
You have to be prepared to sacrifice a lot if you want to be a professional at any sport. This means spending less time with your friends and playing video games, and a lot more time learning soccer and maintaining a high physical fitness level.
2. Study the sport
Even if you have excellent athletic gifts and can pull off key skills, you still need to study the sport as much as possible. Watch soccer matches, talk to coaches and professionals when possible, read books, etc. Do everything you can to learn more about tactics and how other players succeed at the beautiful game.
3. Join a club
If you’re only practicing on your own or with your friends, this won’t be enough to reach the level you’re seeking. It’s vital that you at least join a local soccer club. By doing this, you’ll improve your individual skills and abilities and the way you work as part of a team. It’ll also give you a greater idea about training sessions and matches in a professional-like setting.
4. Earn a soccer scholarship
Even if you excel at a local club, there’s no guarantee you will be spotted by a scout or receive the assistance needed to move towards a professional career. One way of avoiding this issue is by earning a soccer scholarship.
When you play soccer for a college, you will gain the necessary coaching and experience to take your ability to the next level. Remember: you need to combine your soccer proficiency with the right grades. Otherwise, a scholarship is out of the question.
For more information, visit asmscholarships.com. This agency can also provide you with tryout opportunities with the ultimate goal of signing a USL or even MLS contract.
5. Plan for an alternative career
Soccer is one of the most competitive sports in the world when it comes to becoming a professional. Major teams across the world sign-up youngsters to play for their academies, and many of these even fail to make the grade.
Due to this, you must plan for an alternative career if the soccer door closes. This is why it makes a lot of sense to go to college with a scholarship, as you can gain a rewarding education while also giving it your all with your soccer dream.
(Image by S. Hermann & F. Richter from Pixabay)
