Do you get nervous playing when a coach is watching? That's understandable! It can be stressful playing in these situations, including high-level tournaments with various college coaches in attendance. However, these showcases are also the main source for college coaches to recruit so it's important to put on your best performance. Here are a few ways to help you mentally prepare for showcase tournaments:

Think About Your Role 

Before you step onto the field for a warm-up or game, you should think about how you can best help the team win. Ask yourself questions like, “What am I best at?” or “What can I do to impact the game today?” Many college coaches aren't always looking for the fastest, strongest, most technical player. They look for players who are hard-working, who make the right decisions in a game, and those with a high soccer IQ. 

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Calm Your Nerves

It's important to calm your nerves during showcase games. You may see various college coaches at your game and this may cause your nerves to spike. Just remember that it's just another game. Think about how you can best affect the game and how best to leave your mark on. It can be helpful to listen to your favorite playlist or visualize how you will be able to perform at the highest level. Another way to help you perform at your best is to practice mindfulness before a game. Take three deep breaths in to calm yourself before stepping onto the field.  Remember, you don't have to score a goal, provide an assist or keep a clean sheet every game, but remember to work your hardest and never leave anything out on the field. 

Related: The 22 Ways to Manage Pre-Game Nerves

Remember Your Why

Why are you playing in these high level games? What are you working toward? These are key questions to ask yourself before going to play in a showcase game. Think about what it would look like to be playing at the college level. Imagine yourself getting offered a roster spot, joining in your first training session, or playing in your first collegiate game. This will motivate you as you step onto the field and try to impress the various coaches at your game. 

At the end of the day, showcase games are just like any other game, so use these tips to help you prepare for them and other big occasions in your athletic career. Get in the habit of doing this before every showcase game you have and they will become less and less stressful each time! It's important to remember that as long as you're leaving everything out on the field you can have no regrets. 

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* Originally published on September 2, 2022, by Max Brown