TRYOUTS

Your Opportunity to Join SbFc Academy

Coach David Zonneveld giving instructions to Youth Soccer players during a practice for SBFC Academy in Burlington Ontario

The first step toward quality coaching, player development, and competitive excellence

SBFC Academy tryouts are designed to identify motivated players who will thrive in our development environment. Our professional coaching staff evaluates not just current ability, but potential, work ethic, and how players respond to coaching. Every player receives fair consideration and constructive feedback regardless of outcome.

Grassroots to Greatness

Watch the video to learn how SBFC Academy’s comprehensive approach helps youth players reach their full football potential.

2026–2027 Season Tryouts

Tryouts begin later this month, starting August 17th. Registration is required – there are no walk-ons.

Returning players/families DO NOT need to complete the tryout registration form. As we are still in-season, confirmation of Intent (COI) forms will be send out to our membership closer to the end of August.

Who Can Try Out: U8 to U17

Tryout age is based on your child’s 2027 season age, not their current age. Find their birth year below:

DivisionBirth Year
U82019
U92018
U102017
U112016
U122015
U132014
U14 / U152013, 2012
U16 / U172011, 2010

How It Works

  1. Register. Submit the tryout registration form on behalf of your child.
  2. Wait for our call. Our office contacts you directly with your child’s specific training time and location.
  3. Attend. Only players contacted directly by SBFC are invited to attend.

This process keeps our numbers controlled so our coaches can properly evaluate every player on the pitch.

AUGUST 2026 Tryout Dates

AUG

17

AUG

19

AUG

20

AUG

24

AUG

26

AUG

27

More Dates May Be Added

What to Expect

Tryouts typically run 60-90 minutes and include a combination of technical exercises, small-sided games, and match situations. Players will have multiple opportunities to demonstrate both individual skills and game understanding. Our coaches create a positive, encouraging environment while evaluating players on technical ability, tactical awareness, athletic attributes, and character traits.

How to Prepare

Come ready to play in appropriate soccer attire, including shin guards and soccer cleats. Arrive 15 minutes early to check in. Most importantly, come with a positive attitude and willingness to give your best effort.

Registration Process

We will update our website when tryout windows are open. Parents must complete our online registration form to secure a spot for their child at an upcoming tryout session. Following tryouts, all participants will receive feedback and selection decisions within 1-2 weeks. Selected players will receive information about team placement and next steps.

For Parents

We understand that tryouts can be an anxious time for parents as well as players. Rest assured that our evaluation process is designed to be fair, comprehensive, and supportive. Our coaching staff creates an environment where players can showcase their abilities without unnecessary pressure.

What parents can expect :

  • A welcoming atmosphere where your child can perform at their best
  • Clear communication before, during, and after the tryout process
  • Professional evaluations based on multiple factors, not just a single session
  • Constructive feedback regardless of selection outcome
  • Transparency about team placement decisions and development pathways

We encourage parents to help prepare their child mentally by emphasizing effort and enjoyment rather than outcome. Remember that nervousness is normal, and often a sign that your child cares about the opportunity. Our coaches are experienced at putting players at ease and bringing out their best qualities during the evaluation process.

Parents are welcome to observe tryouts from designated areas, though we ask that you refrain from coaching from the sidelines during the session. This allows players to focus on the instructions from our coaching staff and demonstrates their ability to process and apply guidance independently.