Open Football Trials
Open football trials allow eligible players to apply without first being invited by a scout or agent.
They can create genuine opportunities, particularly in semi-professional, non-league, academy and development environments. However, the quality and credibility of open trials vary significantly.
NextMove helps players identify relevant trials and apply with a complete profile.
Current open football trials
Live trial listings
Display:
- Organizer or club
- Location
- Trial date
- Age range
- Positions needed
- Playing level
- Cost
- Deadline
- Verification status
- Application button
Create your profile before applying. →
What is an open football trial?
An open trial is a session that accepts applications from a broad group of players rather than only those directly invited by a club.
The organizer may assess players for:
- A first team
- A reserve or development squad
- An academy
- A semi-professional club
- A showcase event
- Several attending clubs
Open access does not mean automatic acceptance. Some trials require an application, playing history or video before confirming a place.
Who should attend?
An open trial may suit you if:
- You are currently without a club
- You have recently moved
- You were released from an academy or team
- You play at a relevant level but lack direct contacts
- You are returning after injury or time away
- The organizer is specifically recruiting your position
Do not attend only because the event mentions professional football. Check whether the level and eligibility make sense for your background.
How to evaluate a trial
Check the organizer
Look for a real club, registered company, known coach or verifiable event history.
Check the opportunity
A credible listing should explain:
- Who is assessing players
- Which teams or levels are involved
- The age requirements
- The venue and date
- The cost
- What successful players may receive
- Whether places are limited
Check the claims
Avoid events promising contracts or guaranteed representation. A trial can provide exposure or assessment, but no legitimate organizer can guarantee a playing contract before seeing you.
How to apply
Your application should usually include:
- Name and age
- Main position
- Secondary position
- Location
- Current or previous club
- Recent playing level
- Availability
- Highlight video
- Player profile
Use a concise message:
Hi, I’d like to apply for the open trial on [date]. I’m a [age]-year-old [position] based in [location], most recently playing for [club/level]. My profile and video are here: [link]. Please let me know if you need any other information.
How to prepare
In the week before the trial:
- Confirm the surface and footwear
- Review the schedule
- Maintain normal training rather than overtraining
- Sleep properly
- Prepare travel plans
- Bring required documents
- Keep food and hydration familiar
- Arrive early
During the session, focus on doing the basics of your position well.
What coaches may assess
Coaches may look at:
- Technical ability
- Tactical understanding
- Speed of decision-making
- Fitness
- Communication
- Work rate
- Coachability
- Attitude
- Positional discipline
Your reaction after losing the ball or making a mistake may matter as much as a single impressive action.
After the trial
Thank the organizer and ask when players can expect feedback.
If you do not receive a response by the stated date, send one concise follow-up. Avoid repeated messages.
Update your NextMove profile with any new footage or references gained from the session.
Frequently asked questions
Are open football trials legitimate?
Some are. Verify the organizer, venue, coaches, claims and payment details before attending.
Can open trials lead to a contract?
Yes, but most players will not be offered one. Treat the trial as an assessment opportunity, not a guaranteed outcome.
How much should a football trial cost?
There is no universal price. Fees may cover facilities and staff, but high costs and guaranteed claims are warning signs.
Can I attend without an agent?
Yes. Open trials are specifically designed to accept direct applicants.
What position has the best chance?
Your chance depends on what the club needs. Position-specific opportunities are usually more relevant than general trials.
Find a credible open trial
Create your NextMove profile, add your playing history and video, and apply to open football trials relevant to your level and position.
Related pages: