For many children, this may be the first experience they will have with being selected, or conversely, with not being selected. It’s important that you, as a parent, manage their expectations.

To ensure the best chances for your child’s confidence and success, TCYSA recommends that you are conservative in estimating your child’s abilities and err on the side of assuming there is more room for growth and development than may be evident to you or your child. If your child proves to the evaluators to be capable of competing at a higher level or in an older age group, they discuss their assessment and options with you.

Should your child fail to make the team of his or her choice, remember that this decision it isn’t personal or permanent, but how they respond to the outcome can be. Playing any sport – and soccer is no exception – requires hard work and tenaciousness. Continuing to play soccer and develop as a player is the first and most important step your child can take to turn that decision around next year.