FEBRUARY 2025 2026 - FOOTBALL ACADEMY TRIALS

    >> NOTTINGHAM FOREST TRIALS PROCEDURE

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    A Full list, guide of Football Trials and Academy Football Trials Players of all age groups at this Club.

    Here we show you how to apply for these football trials with the club at this age group. Get your football trial opportunity with the Academy of Football and we show you how to get your FOOTBALL TRIAL today.

    FOOTBALL ACADEMY TRIALS U6, U7, U8, U9, U10, U11, U12, U13, U14, U15, U16, U17, U18, U21, U23, OVER 23

     

    How to Apply for Open Football Trials in the UK - 

    Football is a beloved sport in the UK, and many aspiring players dream of making it to the professional level. Open football trials offer a fantastic opportunity to showcase your talent and potentially secure a spot in a club's academy or team. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for open football trials in the UK.

    1. Research Clubs and Trial Dates

    Start by researching clubs that hold open trials. Many professional and semi-professional clubs in the UK offer these opportunities. Check their official websites, social media pages, and local sports news for announcements about upcoming trials. Some popular clubs that frequently hold trials include:

    • Premier League Clubs:
    • Championship Clubs: 
    • Lower League Clubs: 

    2. Understand the Requirements

    Each club may have specific requirements for their trials. These can include age restrictions, skill levels, and sometimes even residency criteria. Make sure you meet these requirements before applying. Common requirements might include:

    • Age groups (e.g., U12, U16, U18)
    • Proof of identity and age
    • Previous playing experience or club affiliation

    3. Prepare Your Application

    Most clubs will require you to fill out an application form. This can usually be found on their official website. The application form will typically ask for:

    • Personal Information: Name, date of birth, contact details
    • Football Experience: Previous clubs, positions played, achievements
    • Medical Information: Any relevant medical conditions or injuries

    Ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date. Some clubs may also ask for a short video showcasing your skills, so be prepared to provide this if requested.

    4. Submit Your Application

    Once your application is complete, submit it according to the club’s instructions. This might be via an online form, email, or postal mail. Make sure to adhere to any deadlines provided by the club.

    5. Prepare for the Trial

    If your application is successful, you will receive an invitation to attend the trial. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

    • Fitness: Ensure you are in peak physical condition. Regular training, proper diet, and adequate rest are crucial.
    • Skills: Focus on honing your football skills, particularly in the position you are applying for.
    • Equipment: Make sure you have the appropriate gear, including boots, shin pads, and training kit.

    6. Attend the Trial

    On the day of the trial, arrive early to give yourself plenty of time to warm up and get settled. Be confident, but also be a team player. Coaches look for players who not only have individual talent but also work well within a team.

    7. Follow Up

    After the trial, it’s a good idea to follow up with the club to thank them for the opportunity and express your continued interest. This can leave a positive impression and keep you on their radar for future opportunities.

    Conclusion

    Applying for open football trials in the UK requires research, preparation, and dedication. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of making a positive impression and potentially securing a spot in a football club. Remember, persistence is key, and every trial is a valuable learning experience. Good luck!

    Apply for a trial with Nottingham Forest....

    NOTTINGHAM FOREST TRIALS PROCEDURE

    How do I get a trial at Nottingham Forest FC?

    Like most clubs, we have a network of scouts who work
    for the club on a local, national and international basis.
    They look for players from under 7’s up to semi-professional
    football. They will recommend players for trial. 

    Can I write in to be invited to an open trial?

    We never invite players to open trials, without seeing them first. 
    We always watch players at their local clubs/school before
    inviting them in for a trial. Therefore players writing in for a trial
    should always include a fixture list (with kick-off times)
    for their teams along with directions and anything else that
    might help (e.g. club and player contact numbers). 
    They should also write about their football background
    (a CV), including information such as date of birth, playing
    position, approx. height/weight (for older players), and clubs
    played for previously. Any representative honours, such as
    schools, districts, county teams etc. should also be included.
    Letters of reference and recommendation usually help to support an application. Confirmation that you hold, a British or EU
    passport, or have ‘leave to remain’ documentation


    How can I be sure that my talent has not been overlooked?

    We take into account many aspects of a young footballer’s
    development including the technical, physical, psychological
    and social aspects. Birth bias issues and maturation rates are
    also taken into consideration when trying to make a judgement
    on players. Many people do not think they have ever had a
    scout at their games, when in fact just the opposite could be true. 
    Most of the time we do not encourage our scouts to wear clothing
    linking them to Forest. The presence of a scout may put unnecessary pressure on the players, as they could be very nervous (this
    is especially true of younger players) or try much harder just
    because they think someone is watching them. Our academy
    looks for players who naturally work hard and try to do the
    right things. 

    I have waited years to be spotted, should I give up?

    Within reason, it is never too late. Some players mature later
    than others, and lots of top class professionals have entered
    the game at a relatively late stage. Keep playing at the highest
    standard of football possible, and never give up hope!  
    Above all always try your best; you never know who is watching!
     
    Players writing for trials should address their letters to:
    Nottingham Forest Football Club, Academy Office,
    Nigel Doughty Academy, Gresham Close,
    Wilford Lane,
    West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 7RQ 
     
    Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 
    Please remember we get hundreds of trial applications
    each week and we cannot watch everyone. 
     
    The higher the level you play at, the more priority we
    will give your request. 

    This is the official process to apply for a trials at this Club.

    Each Club has it's own strict policy, please respect this Club and

    apply using the correct method stated above.

     

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