Trial sessions for the 2026/27 season are now being scheduled across all age groups from U8 to U18. If you are considering bringing your child along, or if you are a player looking to take the next step in your development, this guide walks you through exactly what to expect on trial day.
Before You Arrive
- Register via email at [email protected] or the contact form
- You will receive a confirmation with date, time, and venue
- Arrive 15 minutes early — warm-up begins on time
- Bring boots (firm ground and astroturf if available), shin pads, and a water bottle
- Wear comfortable training kit — PSP kit is NOT required
The Trial Format
Trials are 90 minutes and split into three phases: a technical warm-up (15 mins), position-specific skill exercises (30 mins), and two small-sided games (45 mins). The games are where our coaching staff observe decision-making, attitude, and footballing intelligence rather than simply physical attributes.
Assessment Criteria
Our coaches assess players across four key areas: Technical Ability (first touch, passing accuracy, ball control), Tactical Understanding (movement off the ball, positioning), Physical Potential (speed, agility, stamina), and Psychological Attributes (communication, resilience, coachability). We actively look for players who want to learn, not just those who are already the finished product.
After the Trial
All players will receive verbal feedback on the day. Formal offers to join the academy squad are communicated within 5 working days via email. Players not offered a place are always encouraged to return for future trial dates, as development can be rapid at these ages.
We've signed players who were rejected by other clubs. We look at potential and character, not just where a player is at today. — Dan Osei, Head of Youth Development