How to tryouts work
Players of the same rising grade group will arrive for 45minute-1hour slot and play four (4), 4v4 scrimmages. Players are divided by an algorithm for each game ensuring that they play with and against different players in each game. Each game lasts around 10-12 minutes. If we have more than 8 players per field, we’ll rotate subs in.
Do current players need to attend tryouts?
Yes – all players, new or returning, must attend tryouts.
Do teams change from year to year?
We encourage movement between teams to allow players who thrived in one environment to be challenged in a more competitive team. We want to place players in the most developmentally appropriate environment possible and that may mean moving up or down.
How many players are on a travel team roster?
Typically roster numbers are 12 for 3th/4th Grade, 14 for 5/6th Grade and 18-22 for 7th/8th Grade. We are limited by our league, BAYS, but we are typically well below their upper limit per grade.
Can my player play UP a grade group?
No – players must play their school grade group.
Does everyone get selected for a travel team?
Depending on the number of players trying out for the travel program, we aim to place as many players as is developmentally appropriate. As a base, 3rd grade will typically accept 72 players and we can add more as we go through the age groups.
What is the commitment for the travel program?
The travel program is a 2 season commitment, Fall AND Spring.
Can I register for a single season?
No – travel is a two-season commitment. For single season soccer, please consider the intramural program.
Who evaluates my player at tryouts?
We hire independent, professional evaluators for all our tryouts. No NYS coach, board member or other NYS volunteer is involved in the evaluation process. We do ask our current travel coaches to provide player feedback which aids in our placement process.
What if I cannot make the tryout date? Are there tryout other dates to tryout?
NYS is a large organization with many moving parts. We cannot offer and do not have alternative tryout dates for any grade. If you cannot make your tryout date, please contact your age group coordinator to explore any options.
I’m new to Newton and can’t attend tryouts, what can I do?
We do allow video submissions if you are a NEW player to the travel program or are NEW to Newton and cannot attend tryouts. Please reach out to your AGC to inquire.